BRILHO brings energy where the grid doesn’t reach and transforms the lives of over 3.6 million Mozambicans

In areas where the national electricity grid has yet to reach, the light is beginning to shine thanks to a quiet revolution. The BRILHO programme, funded by the governments of the United Kingdom and Sweden and implemented by SNV, has surpassed the milestone of reaching over 3.6 million Mozambicans with off-grid energy solutions — a remarkable achievement that is transforming communities, stimulating local economies, and saving lives across the country.
Created with the aim of accelerating access to clean, affordable and sustainable energy, the BRILHO programme has already provided over 409,000 electricity connections through solar home systems and green mini-grids, bringing reliable electricity to households that previously depended on inefficient, polluting or even non-existent energy sources. Over 320,000 improved cookstoves have been distributed across Mozambique, contributing to safer, healthier and more cost-efficient homes.
In rural areas, transformation takes on a human face. In Gaza province, Mário Balate, a farmer, saw his routine take a positive turn after adopting a solar water pump for irrigation:
“Before, productivity was low and life was tough. With the solar pump, I can irrigate quickly, harvest more and improve my family’s life. I can feed my children, pay for their education, and even inspire my neighbours to do the same.”
In Boane district, Maputo province, Sara Alfredo, 46, an entrepreneur and mother, used to cook her traditional snacks using charcoal and firewood. The smoke, high costs and lack of consistency threatened both her business and health.

"I used to spend 50 meticais a day on charcoal. It was exhausting, dangerous, and made everything dirty. With the improved cookstove, I spend 50 meticais a week. I cook faster, without smoke, and the house stays clean. Now I’m able to save, help with household expenses, and I’m even building an extra room for my children."
In Gueguegue, also in Boane, the story of Magrete Francisco – a mother of two and entrepreneur – illustrates how the use of improved cookstoves for firewood, charcoal and ethanol also strengthens women's autonomy:
“With a 1,500-metical bag of charcoal, I can now cook for three months and two weeks. It used to last only one month. With the money I saved, I finally plastered my house — a dream since 2010 — and started a new business. I even grow lettuce and cabbage for the family.”
BRILHO is not only bringing energy solutions to households — it is also stimulating the private sector and promoting social inclusion:
- 2,400 jobs created, 39% of which are held by women;
- 51,000 energy products for productive use acquired, such as solar pumps, commercial lighting and refrigerators for small businesses;
- Over £65 million mobilised, including £20 million in direct support to companies and £45.8 million in private co-investment.
Beyond the numbers, BRILHO represents hope, dignity and independence. Behind every improved cookstove lit or solar system installed is a story of resilience, entrepreneurship and a brighter future.
More than just a programme, BRILHO is now a national platform for inclusive and sustainable development, proving that simple and accessible solutions can transform lives and light the path towards a fairer, more resilient Mozambique.