The Water and Energy for Food Grand Challenge (WE4F) Middle East and North Africa Regional Innovation Hub (MENA RIH), is an international partnership among the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, the European Union, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Government of the Netherlands, and Sweden through the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency. WE4F supports the most promising and innovative companies and organizations working to produce more food with less water and more efficient energy resources. Meet Green Essence, one of the selected innovators.
CHALLENGE
The current, unfolding situation in Lebanon has resulted in a growing scarcity of subsidized fuels, and little to no access to subsidized electricity from EDL (the national utility company), especially in rural farming areas. This is especially concerning for farmers, as energy usage is critical for their survival. Also, due to the current situation, Lebanese farmers do not have access to financing, which is needed to buy capital-intensive, power-generating equipment.
SOLUTION
Green Essence Lebanon’s solution provides farmers with solar systems and uses an innovative financing model to relieve farmers’ financial burdens. The company covers the initial investment, maintenance, and operating costs while the farmers pay the company back. Green Essence Lebanon also creates incentives that encourages smallholder farmers to develop additional income opportunities by selling surplus pumped water and generated electricity to neighbors, The company also creates incentives for women and marginalized populations so they have access to and benefit from the solar systems.
RECENT NEWS
Green Essence becomes the first carbon neutral company in Lebanon
Une usine de la Békaa accueillera le plus grand parc solaire du Liban (L’Orient-Le Jour)
Transforming Lebanon through Solar Energy (The Switchers)
Learn more about Green Essence: https://www.greenessencelebanon.com/
