Orb Energy, a solar energy provider with operations in India and Africa, has partnered with Mabati Rolling Mills (MRM), a subsidiary of the Safal Group and a major manufacturer of steel roofing products in Kenya. The collaboration aims to expand the use of solar power in the country’s industrial sector.
As part of the partnership, Orb Energy installed a 2.9-megawatt rooftop solar system at MRM’s manufacturing facility in Mariakani. The installation, among the largest of its kind in Kenya, is expected to generate over 4,200 megawatt-hours of electricity annually. This output will reduce the site’s reliance on grid power, cut energy costs by an estimated $300,000 each year, and avoid more than 3,800 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions.
The project was funded in coordination with GridX Africa, a financing partner focused on renewable energy in the region. The system was designed by Orb’s engineering team in India, with components sourced from India and final installation carried out by Orb’s Kenyan subsidiary.
Orb Energy CEO and Co-founder Damian Miller described the project as a key step toward supporting sustainable manufacturing in Africa, emphasizing the importance of combining technical knowledge from India with on-the-ground execution in Kenya.
“This installation shows how industrial players can take concrete steps to address rising energy costs while also contributing to climate goals,” Miller said. “We hope to replicate similar projects across the continent.”
MRM CEO Albert Sigei said the initiative aligns with the company’s broader sustainability goals, noting that it supports both operational efficiency and environmental responsibility. He highlighted the system’s role in reducing emissions, lowering electricity expenses, and aligning with national and global climate targets, including the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
“This investment supports our goal of embedding sustainability across our operations,” said Mr Sigei. “It also contributes to Kenya’s transition toward cleaner energy sources while ensuring we continue to meet customer demand with minimal environmental impact.”
Orb Energy is a fully integrated provider of rooftop solar solutions, producing its own solar panels and offering in-house financing options for commercial and industrial clients. ORB Energy is a clean energy company based in India that provides solar energy solutions for residential, commercial, and industrial customers.
Since its founding in 2006, ORB Energy has focused on making solar power accessible and affordable, offering end-to-end services including system design, installation, financing, and maintenance. The company is especially known for its work in promoting rooftop solar installations and solar water heating systems. ORB’s initiatives contribute to reducing carbon emissions and supporting India’s renewable energy targets, making it a key player in the country’s transition to sustainable energy.
