Article
Trine
3 w
•
Lighting Up Lives in the DRC: Altech’s Inspiring Mission to End Energy Poverty
Powering Progress in the DRC
Altech, one of our esteemed partners, continues to attract significant capital and make a tangible impact in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
As one of Africa's largest and most populous nations, the DRC faces staggering energy challenges, with over 80% of its population lacking access to electricity. Founders Washikala Malango and Iongwa Mashangao took on the formidable task of addressing energy poverty by establishing Altech in 2017. Their vision and dedication have since been transforming lives across the nation.
A Partnership for Change despite volcanic eruptions and logistical challenges
Through a dynamic partnership with Trine, EUR 5,000,000 in debt financing was mobilised from impact investors like you. The funding enabled Altech to expand its reach into some of the most remote corners of the DRC, including areas only accessible by air. Trine’s financing provided lighting to more than 160,000 people, funded over 38,000 lanterns and saved 60 tonnes of CO2.
Altech faced months of logistical challenges due to the lack of proper road infrastructure but demonstrated exceptional resilience and innovation to overcome them. Their efforts were further tested when the Mount Nyiragongo volcano erupted, putting their operations and clients at risk. Throughout these difficulties, the unwavering support and patience of Trine investors played a vital role in keeping the mission on track. This highlights the profound power of impact-driven investing in creating meaningful, transformative change.
A truck carrying some of Altech’s Solar Home Systems inventory got stuck on a bad section of a major route for many weeks.
Altech’s Journey: Illuminating the DRC Amidst Challenges
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) continues to face significant energy poverty, with an estimated 77 million people lacking access to electricity. Bridging this vast gap remains a formidable challenge, requiring persistent effort, substantial capital, and innovative solutions.
Despite these obstacles, Altech has made remarkable strides. To date, the company has positively impacted over 2.25 million individuals by distributing more than 450,000 clean energy products and 25,000 clean cookstoves. These efforts have also contributed to economic development, creating over 4,500 regional jobs. Such achievements demonstrate the transformative potential of Altech’s work in empowering communities and fostering sustainability.
Building on this momentum, Altech is continuing its mission by raising additional capital from Nithio to further its efforts in tackling energy poverty. This success has been made possible, in part, by the support provided by Trine investors. Altech’s story is another example of how Trine helps its partner companies grow, enabling them to attract additional investment and scale their impact. Together, we are working towards a brighter, more sustainable future for the DRC.
Gratitude and Looking Ahead
We take immense pride in supporting Altech’s extraordinary journey and extend our heartfelt thanks to all Trine investors who have joined us in this mission. Together, we are proving that investing in visionary companies like Altech can yield powerful and lasting outcomes. While the final payment on Altech’s current loan is due in July 2025, we are already exploring new avenues to support their mission further.
Join the Movement
As we continue building on this momentum, other impactful companies seek investment to drive sustainable change. Visit our investment page to learn more about these opportunities and join us in creating a cleaner, brighter future for communities in need.
Together, we’re not just investing in companies—we’re investing in hope, progress, and a sustainable future for all.
Join us at the Davos Hub!
Broadcasts
Re-watch all our COP29 broadcasts
We need to stop methane and #BuyMoreTime
We'll plant a tree for you
And together we've planted over 150,000 trees. One tree is planted for every climate review written to an organization that is Open for Climate Dialogue™.
How does this work?
The Climate Action App
We plant a tree for every new user
Welcome, let's solve the climate crisis together
Write or agree to climate reviews to make businesses and world leaders act. It’s easy and it works.
•
•
1 w
The investment by Trine in Altech was crucial in expanding the reach. This shows how important is funding in accelerating actions.
•
•
•
2 w
Commendable in a simple term, keep impacting.
•
•
2 w
A true testament to the power of innovation and resilience in addressing energy poverty, even in the most challenging environments
•
•
3 w
Despite the challenges this organisation is facing, it's firm on it's journey to an energy efficient world 🌍
•
•
3 w
Their resilience amidst challenges shows the power of impact-driven solutions in tackling global issues."