OnePower (1PWR) is a renewable energy company based in Lesotho developing mini-grids and utility-scale power plants. 1PWR manages
key development and operational activities for projects with an array of focused teams that cover Construction, Production, EHS, Project
Management, Fleet, Operations & Maintenance, Permitting, Engineering, Procurement, and Asset Management. The company’s
strong technical experience ensures projects meet bankability requirements from lenders as well as Development Finance Institutions.
One Power (1PWR) is constructing Mini grids in 10 concession areas in 6 districts of Lesotho. 1PWR has obtained concession agreements, environmental clearances, and LEWA license exemptions (Ribaneng outstanding). 1PWR has invested in de-risking on engineering design and environmental and social impact via an EU-ElectriFI (EDFI) co- financed feasibility study (Cadmus and Black & Veatch consultants). Construction of a pilot Mini grid at Ha Makebe – the first privately financed and fully licensed Mini grid in Lesotho – was completed by 1PWR to showcase its technical approach and customer engagement strategy.
1PWR has secured equity and concessional debt to the project special purpose vehicle (SPV) – Sotho Mini grid Portfolio SPV PTY LTD – from the EU EDFI and UK REPP funds. This private investment ensures that the project can supply essential energy infrastructure in Lesotho, ultimately resulting in roughly 10,000 connections. Building Mini grids to electrify the poor is not envisioned to be a hugely profitable enterprise, but the Ha Makebe pilot proved this structure to be financially viable, sustainable and able to generate a return on investment sufficient to meet the hurdle rates of potential investors e.g. the Lesotho Pension Fund.