Léonie Dorsen

DRC-based engineer revolutionizing renewable energy access in sub-Saharan Africa through solar microgrids

Léonie Dorsen is a Congolese-German engineer whose work has transformed energy access in conflict zones of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). As founder of Energize Africa, she developed innovative solar microgrid systems that now power over 200,000 homes in regions lacking centralized electricity. Her community-driven approach prioritizes local job creation through training programs for women engineers. Dorsen's 2022 TED Talk "How Solar Power Can Light Up Conflict Zones" introduced her decentralized energy model to global audiences. She also pioneered the Solar for Peace Initiative, using energy infrastructure to rebuild communities affected by the Ituri conflict. Her recent partnership with UNICEF expanded solar access to 50 rural hospitals, directly impacting maternal healthcare outcomes. Dorsen's MIT-developed smart solar mesh technology now serves as a blueprint for off-grid energy systems in 14 African countries.