Powering Africa’s Clean Energy Transition
Deadline: December 12, 2025
The Climate and Clean Air Coalition Challenge Programme (CCAC Challenge Programme: Accelerating Uptake of eCooking in Africa) is now accepting project proposals to expand access to clean, electric cooking solutions. This initiative tackles one of Africa’s most urgent energy and health challenges, reducing black carbon emissions from traditional cooking methods.
Today, nearly 2.1 billion people still cook using open fires or polluting stoves, leading to 3.2 million premature deaths annually. Women and children are most affected, spending hours daily near harmful smoke. The Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC) seeks to reverse this by promoting eCooking solutions that improve air quality, reduce emissions, and advance gender equality.
Why eCooking Matters
Transitioning to eCooking can transform lives while advancing public health, climate action, and economic empowerment. Over half of African households using biomass for cooking already have access to electricity. Yet, they lack reliable power, efficient appliances, or financing options to switch.
The CCAC Challenge Programme supports innovative projects that integrate clean energy access, affordable financing, and local technology development. The goal is to make eCooking reliable, culturally relevant, and financially accessible for every household.
Focus Areas for Proposals
Applicants should address at least three of the following priority areas:
- Locally appropriate technologies – Design or adapt electric cookers that support African cooking styles.
- Energy access planning – Expand affordable, reliable electricity through grid, mini-grid, or off-grid systems.
- Financial inclusion – Develop microloans or pay-as-you-go models to make eCooking affordable.
- Women’s empowerment – Strengthen women’s roles in eCooking businesses and community awareness.
Projects must demonstrate measurable reductions in air pollution and black carbon emissions while supporting social inclusion and energy access.
How to Apply
Submit a Concept Note and applicant information through the official Google Form. Only non-profit entities—such as NGOs, IGOs, and government institutions are eligible to receive funding. Proposals must be innovative, collaborative, and scalable across Africa.
This is your chance to help millions of Africans cook safely and sustainably. If your organization can deliver innovative, inclusive solutions, now is the time to act. Apply for the CCAC Challenge Programme 2026 and lead the transition toward clean, equitable, and climate-resilient eCooking in Africa.
Complete the challenge concept note HERE.
Complete the Challenge Programme Google Form with applicant information (available here)
