Calculate Your Impact

SME RE sells biomass gasification systems to industries in rural Cambodia. The systems decrease energy costs by replacing diesel fuel as the primary energy source with gas produced from agricultural waste such as rice husks. Replacing diesel with gasification systems increases economic growth opportunities for rural businesses that can save up to US$50,000 a year in energy costs. The systems have the added benefit of being environmentally friendly, reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 200 tons per system per year.     

The Need

After years of civil war, unrest and corruption, Cambodia suffers from an almost total lack of basic infrastructure and a nominal rural electrification rate. Most of Cambodia’s rural electricity is generated by diesel fuel and delivered to customers in poor quality and at a high price. The lack of modern energy is a major impediment to economic development. 

E+Co Value Added

E+Co has invested US$ 594,975 in SME-RE and its projects. The investment is comprised of equity, a working capital loan, and several end user loans. In May 2007 E+Co approved a US$600,000 credit facility to make loans to finance the purchase and installation of biomass gasifiers for new clients.

Prior to investing, E+Co assisted the company in solidifying its business plan and strengthening its marketing strategy, which resulted in a strong increase in sales. In addition to being an equity shareholder, E+Co sits on the company's Board of Directors.