Nairobi, Kenya – 20 May 2025 – Solarise Africa and RUBiS Energy Kenya are proud to announce that RUBiSOL, their joint venture focused on renewable energy solutions for Commercial and Industrial (C&I) clients, has been recognised with the prestigious “Deal of the Year 2024 – East Africa” award by DealMakers AFRICA.
Launched in November 2024, RUBiSOL was established to address the growing demand for reliable, affordable, and clean energy across East Africa. The joint venture combines Solarise Africa’s expertise in decentralised solar and hybrid energy solutions with RUBiS Energy Kenya’s robust infrastructure and extensive market presence, enabling businesses to shift away from fossil fuels and embrace a more sustainable energy model.
“This award is a powerful recognition of our shared vision to reshape the energy landscape in East Africa,” said Jan Albert Valk, Co-Founder and CEO of Solarise Africa. “Through RUBiSOL, we are empowering businesses to transition to clean energy with confidence – unlocking energy independence, improving operational efficiency, and contributing to a greener future.”
The RUBiSOL transaction marks a significant strategic milestone for RUBiS Energy Kenya, reinforcing its commitment to renewable energy and decarbonisation. By integrating decentralised energy systems into its traditional fuel distribution network, RUBiS is spearheading a new chapter in energy evolution.
Olivier Sabrié, Group Managing Director of RUBiS Energy Kenya and CEO of RUBiS Energie East Africa, commented: “This accolade is a testament to the strength of our partnership, our bold step forward in accelerating the energy transition, and the growing urgency for truly integrated renewable energy solutions across East Africa. With RUBiSOL, we’re not just meeting market demand – we’re shaping it and empowering our commercial clients to secure energy resilience.”
The transaction was complex and pioneering in its structure. It involved the restructuring of both companies’ business operations, integration of renewable energy systems into existing distribution networks, negotiation of agreements with corporate clients across Africa, and the finalisation of shareholder loan agreements. The deal was executed using a hybrid debt and equity model, requiring approval from both the Competition Authority of Kenya and the COMESA Competition Commission.
Advised by ENS, this landmark deal paves the way for innovation in energy delivery and positions RUBiSOL as a key player in Africa’s clean energy future.
About RUBiSOL
RUBiSOL is a joint venture between Solarise Africa and RUBiS Energy Kenya, created to deliver decentralised renewable energy solutions to C&I clients across East Africa. RUBiSOL provides tailored energy systems backed by innovative financing models, unlocking access to affordable, clean, and reliable power for businesses in the region.
About Solarise Africa
Solarise Africa is a pan-African Energy-as-a-Service company providing decentralised, reliable, and affordable energy solutions to businesses across the continent. Learn more at www.solariseafrica.com.
About RUBiS Energy Kenya
RUBiS Energy Kenya is a subsidiary of Rubis Energie and operates over 500 service stations across East Africa. It is a leader in the region’s energy sector, committed to sustainable growth and innovation. Learn more at www.rubiskenya.com.
Together, let’s power progress, sustainably.