ARC Power and Volkswagen Mobility Solutions
Overview
In November 2024 ARC Power unveiled a pilot Gen Farm project in partnership with Volkswagen Mobility Solutions Rwanda (VWMSR).
Designed to support agriculture mechanisation, sustainable mobility, and local entrepreneurship, this groundbreaking solar-powered E-HUB, The Empowerment Hub, was developed in partnership with Volkswagen Mobility Solutions Rwanda (VWMSR) on behalf of Volkswagen Group Africa.
How does it work?
The Empowerment Hub, is powered by ARC Power’s advanced solar grid systems, supplying clean, reliable energy for essential services like electric tractors (e-tractors) and e-scooters, contributing to mechanised farming and sustainable mobility.
The hub also provides a flexible business and training space for entrepreneurs, empowering local startups to thrive within a clean energy ecosystem.
What does is deliver?
Agricultural Transformation projects are at a crucial juncture, with only 5% of the country’s 1.4 million hectares of arable land currently mechanised.
ARC Power’s Gen Farm project directly aligns with National Agriculture Policy, which emphasises the need for mechanisation to increase productivity and reduce labour-intensive practices. These are designed to foster local economic self-sufficiency by addressing specific needs within the community.
In particular, the initiative will reduce the workload of women, allowing them more time for other productive activities.
“This partnership marks a new chapter for the potential of sustainable energy and agricultural innovation in Africa… with our solar energy and ongoing management of the hub, we are confident this project will not only increase agricultural productivity in this area of Rwanda, but also prove the viability of a sustainable model to inspire further investment in the region.”
Karl Boyce, CEO of ARC Power.
Additionally, the E-HUB will serve as a centre for the operation and maintenance of mechanised farming equipment, linking farmers to essential tools and support.
“Our vision is to use this Empowerment Hub as a pilot that will demonstrate the positive impacts of renewable energy and mechanisation in Africa’s rural communities…it’s not only about providing energy; it’s about creating a sustainable, scalable business model for agriculture mechanization in Africa..”
Serge Kamuhinda, Managing Director of VWMSR.
Supporting Rwanda’s Vison 2050
Directly addressing many of the overarching goals set out in Rwanda’s Vision 20250 this Gen Farm project aims to improve:
- Economic Growth and Prosperity
- High Quality and Standards of Life for Rwandan
What’s next?
Serving as a blueprint for future expansion across Africa, the pilot E-HUB will be managed by ARC Power until 2026 to ensure its feasibility and success.
Expansion plans will draw upon learnings from this pilot project, developing and redefining implementation to support the country’s ambitions for market-oriented, climate-resilient agriculture.
