Linus Odhiambo Odyenyah

Innovative African scientist advancing clean energy solutions

Linus Odhiambo Odyenyah (born 1976) is a Kenyan chemist and renewable energy innovator renowned for developing low-cost solar energy storage systems. His work focuses on addressing energy poverty in rural Africa through affordable technology.

Odyenyah's breakthrough came in 2016 with the creation of a solar battery using locally sourced materials that reduced storage costs by 70%. This technology has been deployed in over 1,500 off-grid communities across Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. He co-founded Sunridge Innovations, a company commercializing his research.

His advocacy for science education in African universities led to the establishment of the African Institute for Sustainable Energy (AISE) in Nairobi. Odyenyah has published over 40 peer-reviewed papers and received the 2018 African Innovation Foundation Prize.

Despite his technical focus, he emphasizes community engagement: 'Technology must serve people, not just exist in labs.' His TED Talk 'Solar Power for Every Village' has over 2 million views. Learn more at LinkedIn and AIF profile.