Energy remains the backbone of every growing economy, and access to reliable power determines how fast industries, schools, and households progress. In many parts of West Africa, power shortages have slowed development for decades. The Power X Project was conceived to change that reality, a 50 MW solar hybrid generation plant designed to stabilize supply and extend access to more than 150,000 households and small businesses.

When Ascent Lending LLC was approached by the project sponsor, a regional renewable energy consortium, the challenge was clear. Local financial institutions were hesitant to fund large renewable projects because of long payback periods and regulatory uncertainty. The developers had secured land, permits, and offtake agreements but needed structured capital to move from planning to execution.

Ascent Lending designed a blended financing solution that combined senior debt, mezzanine capital, and a small equity injection from development focused investors. Through our global network, we mobilized private capital from two international impact funds and paired them with regional lenders willing to take local currency exposure. The financing package included an 18 year tenor, a two year grace period, and repayment terms tied directly to power purchase revenues.

Beyond arranging capital, Ascent Lending provided strategic oversight, coordinating feasibility reviews, environmental impact assessments, and independent engineering audits to ensure the plant met both international and national compliance standards. Our team worked alongside the engineering, procurement, and construction contractors to create a strong risk management plan that included political risk insurance, maintenance reserves, and performance guarantees.

Construction began six months after financial close. The first phase delivered 25 MW within 14 months, supplying clean energy to 78 communities that previously relied on diesel generators. By the time the full 50 MW came online, grid stability improved by 40 percent, and more than 500 temporary and 120 permanent jobs had been created. The project also reduced carbon emissions by about 60,000 tons per year, contributing to the region’s climate action goals.

For investors, the project represented both impact and return. Early cash flows exceeded projections by 12 percent, driven by consistent power sales and efficient operations. For Ascent Lending, the Power X Project proved that disciplined structuring, local insight, and strong partnerships can turn a high risk initiative into a bankable success. It reinforced our conviction that renewable energy in Africa is not just good for the planet, but also a sound financial investment.