Damilola Ogunbiyi

A Nigerian entrepreneur who revolutionized rural electrification through solar energy innovation

Damilola Ogunbiyi (b. 1972) is a visionary Nigerian engineer and entrepreneur whose work in renewable energy has transformed access to electricity in West Africa's rural communities. After earning her engineering degree from the University of Lagos in 1995, she witnessed the stark energy disparities during her travels across Nigeria's rural regions. This inspired her to co-found Solar Village Solutions in 2001, a company that pioneered decentralized solar microgrids tailored for off-grid communities.

Her innovative pay-as-you-go financing model, featured in Financial Times case studies, allowed households to access clean energy for just $1.50 per week - a fraction of kerosene costs. By 2008, her systems provided electricity to over 200,000 people across 150 villages, reducing deforestation rates by 40% in project areas. Her work was recognized by the World Bank's Lighting Africa initiative, which adopted her models for continental expansion.

Key to her success was the integration of local craftsmanship - training over 3,000 artisans in solar panel assembly and maintenance. This created sustainable employment while ensuring system longevity. Her 2009 TED Talk "Energy Equity: Powering Progress Without Pollution" became a blueprint for global energy access programs. Current projects include partnerships with UNICEF to power rural healthcare facilities and schools through solar-diesel hybrid systems.