Jaza Energy Hubs light up communities and empowers women - Yanko Design

"Jaza Energy Hubs, created by the Nigerian‑based studio Nonfiction Design, have quickly become a model of clean, affordable energy for off‑grid villages. The project showcases a modular solar hub that can be shipped flat, unpacked and assembled in a single day with only basic tools. Each hub generates enough electricity to run lights, phones, fans and small shop equipment, replacing costly and polluting diesel generators and kerosene lamps."

"What sets Jaza apart is its focus on people, not just technology. Local women, called "Jaza Stars," are trained to run the hubs, manage the battery rentals and maintain the solar panels. The training provides stable income, business skills and a leadership role that many women in rural Nigeria have never had. By putting women at the center of the operation, the project advances gender equity while creating reliable jobs in communities where opportunities are scarce."

Jaza Energy Hubs are modular solar stations shipped flat and assembled in a single day with basic tools. Each hub powers lights, phones, fans and small shop equipment, replacing diesel generators and kerosene lamps. Hubs began operating in Gambari, Oyo State in July 2024 with a goal of 500 nationwide, each serving dozens of households. Residents rent swappable battery packs (60–180 Ah) and swap depleted packs for fully charged ones at local hubs. Local women called "Jaza Stars" run the hubs, manage rentals and maintain panels, receiving training, stable income and leadership roles. Structures use reclaimed materials; batteries are tracked, serviced and recycled in a closed-loop system. A subscription model enables expansion without continuous external funding. Households report lower fuel expenses and fewer health problems from indoor air pollution.

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