Alongside other critical interventions, end user subsidies for off-grid solar solutions will play a key role in ensuring that no one is left behind in the bid to achieve universal electrification
GOGLA has worked to identify, convene and build the capacity of NREAs so that they can be even better partners for our sector.
GOGLA actively facilitates exchanges on best practice policies and regulations to scale up the off-grid solar industry. We develop knowledge and produce resources to inform dialogue with governments and policymakers.
GOGLA country briefs have been developed for 20 African nations. These provide insights on off-grid solar markets, including details on sales and impact, policies and programs, investments, quality assurance regulations, e-waste initiatives and key stakeholders.
The briefs were developed with the support of the World Bank Group Lighting Global Program, the Energy Sector Management Assistance Program, USAID/Power Africa, Africa Clean Energy Technical Assistance Facility, and Sustainable Energy for All.
Monitor off grid solar taxes and duty rates with one tool
Governments around the world are increasingly using varied tax measures to accelerate efforts to reach universal access and ensure no one is left behind. While these efforts are appreciated, applicable tax and duty rates across different market are not always transparent to private sector actors and other stakeholders.
To address this challenge, GOGLA has developed a Taxes & Duty Tracker that can help off grid solar companies discover, research, and monitor currently applicable taxes & duty on 30+ off-grid solar products and appliances from 24 countries. Details regarding relevant Harmonized System (HS) codes, incentives and exemptions are also included.
With a clear insight into applicable VAT and import tariff, the taxes and duty tracker can help off-grid solar companies adequately plan and make key business decisions.
The GOGLA policy repository is a database for national legislation, policy, and regulation relevant to the off-grid solar energy industry in five East African countries: Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania and Uganda. The repository covers current and emerging policy and regulatory areas (both direct and indirect to the sector), including Laws and regulations, sector planning, such as national energy plans, rural electrification strategies, and national renewable energy plans.
The repository also covers Fiscal policy, such as VAT and finance acts. consumer protection acts and regulations, product standards, and e-waste. GOGLA plans to further expand the repository to cover more regions in Africa and South Asia.
Photography by Jeffrey Michael Walcott, Julia Gunther, current and previous GOGLA members
Photography by Jeffrey Michael Walcott, Julia Gunther, current and previous GOGLA members