Flagship Project
Bawena, Northern Ghana.
Nestled in the Savannah Region, Bawena is the heart of the Power-a-Village vision — and the first of many communities we hope to transform.
The community
Why Bawena.
Like many rural communities across Africa, Bawena faces significant challenges related to energy access, economic opportunity, and infrastructure. Despite these challenges, the community possesses enormous potential — particularly among women entrepreneurs, farmers, and young people seeking opportunities to improve their livelihoods.
Our engagement with the community began through research, community consultations, and field visits. It became clear that energy access was not simply a matter of lighting homes — it was a catalyst for education, entrepreneurship, communication, healthcare, and economic development.
The model
Community-centered energy.
PAV is implementing a practical approach to rural electrification in Bawena through solar home systems and community-based energy enterprises. Rather than relying solely on grants, we work with households to acquire solar systems through affordable payment plans that promote ownership and long-term sustainability.
By helping families purchase quality systems at affordable rates over flexible repayment periods, we create a pathway toward universal energy access that is both scalable and financially sustainable.
Productive uses
Energy as a tool for economic transformation.
PAV is exploring solar-powered community enterprises that create local jobs, increase household incomes, and strengthen resilience.
- Mobile phone charging services
- Small retail and grocery operations
- Solar-powered refrigeration and cold storage
- Educational and digital learning services
- Community gathering and information centers
- Women-led businesses and micro-enterprises
Women
At the center of development.
Women often bear the greatest burden of energy poverty while serving as the backbone of rural economies. Through targeted support for women entrepreneurs and community leaders, PAV ensures that energy access translates into meaningful economic opportunities for women and their families.
Research & learning
A living laboratory.
Through ongoing monitoring, community engagement, and impact assessment, PAV documents lessons that will inform future projects across Northern Ghana and other parts of Africa. Insights from Bawena will help shape a scalable model for community-centered electrification.
Our growth vision
From Bawena to villages across Africa.
While our initial focus is Northern Ghana, our long-term goal is to expand successful community energy models across Africa — partnering with local communities, governments, development organizations, and the private sector.
Support the missionIN SUPPORT OF THE
UNITED NATIONS
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS
