NextBillion - A WDI Publication

Siemens Stiftung (foundation), together with ICLEI Europe and the UNEP Copenhagen Climate Centre, is pleased to invite you to the upcoming webinar, “From Pilots to Pathways: Entrepreneurial Lessons from Africa’s Smart Energy Sector”.

About the Event
The webinar will include an open panel discussion exploring the experiences, opportunities and challenges involved in scaling sustainable energy business models across Africa.

Over four years, the Smart Energy Solutions for Africa (SESA) project brought together partners and entrepreneurs to develop, test, and strengthen sustainable energy solutions in different African contexts. Although the project officially concluded in October 2025, the experiences and knowledge generated through this collaboration remain highly relevant.

Date: Thursday, October 15, 2026
Time: 14:00 CEST
Format: Zoom

Drawing on the Siemens Stiftung publication “From Pilots to Pathways: Founder Lessons from Testing Smart Energy Business Models Across Africa,” the panellists will share the stories behind their work: what they tested, what they learned and what it takes to turn promising ideas into viable and sustainable businesses.

The conversation will offer practical insights for entrepreneurs, partners and organisations supporting innovation in Africa’s energy sector.

We are pleased to welcome the following panellists:
Vincenzo Lorusso, European Commission
Brian Andaje, We! Hub Limited, Kenya
Okey Esse, CEO, Powerstove Nigeria
Magdalena Sikorowska, ICLEI European Secretariat, Brussels
Moderated by:
Lakshmi Bhamidipati, UNEP Copenhagen Climate Centre
Elisabeth Biber, Senior Project Manager, Siemens Stiftung
Opening Remarks:
Dr. Nina Smidt, CEO and Spokesperson of the Board, Siemens Stiftung
Whether you were part of the SESA journey, are building an energy enterprise, or work to support entrepreneurs and sustainable energy solutions across Africa, we would be delighted to welcome you to the conversation.

We look forward to reconnecting with SESA partners and colleagues, and to exchanging ideas with entrepreneurs and other stakeholders to advance sustainable energy solutions across Africa.

Time: 8:00 AM EDT