Revolutionizing Cooking with Affordable Solar Power: A Game-Changer for Ethiopia's Energy Landscape
In a bold move to enhance clean cooking access, Green Scene Energy Plc has unveiled Tolo, a locally crafted solar stove, priced at an astonishing 25-30% below market rates. This innovative product is set to transform the lives of households in rural and off-grid areas, where electricity remains a luxury.
But here's where it gets controversial... Tolo operates on solar energy through Direct Current Charging (DCC), offering a dual-purpose solution for both on-grid and off-grid users. Green Scene Energy plans to distribute Tolo through a pay-as-you-go model, partnering with microfinance institutions and local retailers. This approach ensures accessibility and affordability for all.
"Tolo is our response to the energy needs of households lacking electricity and those seeking greener alternatives to traditional biomass and charcoal cooking methods," says Rekike Bekele, CEO of Green Scene Energy.
The stove is manufactured at Green Scene Energy's factory in Kotebe, Addis Ababa, with an impressive daily production capacity of over 200 units. Since its inception in 2016, the company has supplied over 9,000 solar energy products nationwide and is now venturing into solar appliance manufacturing.
Rising electricity tariffs in Ethiopia, influenced by cost-recovery reforms, inflation, and increasing demand, have highlighted the importance of solar solutions. As of September 2025, a significant 45% of Ethiopians still lack grid connectivity, primarily in rural regions.
The launch of Tolo aligns perfectly with Ethiopia's Clean Cooking Programme (2035) and National Carbon Market Strategy (2025-2035), which aim to improve access to modern cooking energy and reduce household carbon emissions. This initiative is a step towards a greener and more sustainable future for Ethiopia.
And this is the part most people miss... Tolo's impact extends beyond just providing an affordable cooking solution. It empowers rural communities, reduces their reliance on traditional fuels, and contributes to a cleaner environment. With Tolo, Green Scene Energy is not just selling a stove; they're selling a sustainable lifestyle.
So, what do you think? Is Tolo a game-changer for Ethiopia's energy landscape? Will it revolutionize cooking practices and inspire similar initiatives worldwide? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
