RUBiSOL named ‘Deal of the Year 2024 – East Africa’ at DealMakers AFRICA Awards
Jan Albert Valk, Co-Founder and CEO of Solarise Africa says award is a powerful recognition of their shared vision with Rubis Energy to reshape the energy landscape in East Africa
RUBiSOL, a joint venture between Solarise Africa and RUBiS Energy Kenya 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.”
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 RUBiSOL transaction marked 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.
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.
