Solar energy market analysis - identifying opportunities for expansion

STG International is a nonprofit organization focused on bringing sustainable energy technologies to communities in the developing world. Through a co-generation platform called “Solar ORC,” STG has built solar technology capable of providing reliable and affordable energy to the public in a cost-efficient way. STG has worked with local, regional, and international partners in Lesotho to develop and pilot the technology with great success. The organization is now looking to expand to other countries, demonstrate the viability of their mini-grid models, and secure capital investment for future expansion. STG International commissioned a Capstone team to conduct an in-depth market analysis and determine feasible options for expansion. Starting with a dozen countries with strong solar viability and high-electrification needs, the Capstone team researched country stability, regulatory environments, institutional frameworks, market opportunities, and operational landscapes to develop a matrix of priorities, with key indicators for each country. Using this matrix, the team narrowed the list to three countries, then, based on STG’s core capabilities and ease of entry into the new market, identified one country to research in-depth. In the final phase of research, the team conducted interviews, reviewed geospatial data, and gathered in-depth research to produce a comprehensive market analysis for STG’s expansion into Uganda.