Anne Wacera Wambugu

I am an Electrical Engineer specialized in utility power systems (distribution level infrastructure and demand side power quality), sustainable energy systems (feasibility and community engagement), and off-grid solar (social, technical, and financial). My work focuses on the analysis and digitization of electricity systems anchored by one guiding principle: ensuring the quality, safety, and longevity of installed electricity systems.

I find innovative ways to solve persistent problems in the electricity sector by combining engineering expertise, field research, and digital tools. This includes building operational tools to help engineers overcome the challenges when deploying electricity solutions and, to help regulators to find workable ways to implement regulations, so that policy on paper translates into safe, quality electricity systems on the ground.

Currently, I lead electrification research and consultancy projects at Strathmore University, where I manage electricity access initiatives, including work on e-cooking and e-mobility standards. Parallel to that, I am the Founder and CTO of Evonet Energy, overseeing the development of its inaugural product Sunsafe — a digital platform for solar sizing and marketplace organization.

My work also focuses on gender in the electricity ecosystem. This includes the skilling and inclusion of women in the renewable energy sector, especially female engineers and technicians. I study the energy needs of women-led small businesses with an aim of ensuring equitable access to productive-use assets. I am also interested in the financing of appliances used for domestic labour to alleviate the labour burden on women.

Overall, my work seeks to advance sustainable, quality electricity solutions that address Africa’s energy challenges, accounting for social and cultural contexts to ensure long term impact. Learn more about the motivations behind my work here.