The project aims to pilot Independent Power Producer (IPP) mini-grid technology in Lesotho, and demonstrate that they can be a superior sustainable solution for rural energy access. The successful mini-grid model that project partner Gram Oorja has applied in over 60 remote rural communities in India will be adapted to create an innovative technology and business model for Lesotho. The model combines a mini-grid with a set of tailored productivity-enhancing technologies and services (water pumping, grain milling, entrepreneurship, etc.). Two alternative versions of the innovative model will be tested by installing and monitoring the performance of two mini-grids, one for compact rural community and the other for a more widely dispersed community.