From security solutions to solar generation

Mozambique

Eduardo França, president of Advanced Intelligent Systems (AIS), talks to The Energy Year about why the company was created, the solar-powered car park it is developing, how it funds its operations and its approach to obtaining new contracts. AIS designs, implements, monitors and maintains electronic security systems.

Why did you create the subsidiary EFC Solar?
AIS was created in 2014. In 2022, we recognised the growing demand for renewable energy solutions in Mozambique. The renewable energy landscape, however, presents a unique challenge. Households and small businesses have different needs compared to major clients, such as EDM [Electricidade de Moçambique], and large infrastructure projects. High-power installations are required for the latter, while the former need smaller-scale solutions.
We tackled this challenge by establishing EFC Solar, a dedicated subsidiary focused on the household and commercial market, allowing AIS to remain the trusted partner for high-power installations.
AIS focuses on electronic security and large-scale power solutions, and EFC Solar focuses on the household and commercial solar market.

What is the newest project AIS is working on?
Recent collaborations with Aeroporto Internacional de Maputo, the Broll Property Group’s Baía Mall and the I2A consulting Group exemplify our large-scale capabilities. AIS is constructing a solar-powered car park, which is a solution that provides shade for vehicles while generating clean electricity. AIS intends to replicate this solution for clients in Mozambique. Leveraging our combined knowledge of photovoltaic systems and security equipment, we can design, install and remotely monitor the entire system.

How does the company secure funds for operations?
We’re actively seeking partnerships with foreign donors and investors to fuel our expansion into renewable energy. Mozambique’s high interest rates make local financing a challenge, but we see immense potential in both the large-scale and household and commercial solar markets.
Investors, however, prioritise certain criteria. One key requirement is to have a power purchase agreement (PPA). For example, our current collaboration with Aeroporto Internacional de Maputo demonstrates this. Once we finalise a tariff agreement with the airport, it will strengthen our position when approaching investors. Their primary concern is the project’s long-term sustainability, and a reliable off-taker such as the airport provides that assurance.
Our target clients include established entities such as EDM, the airport, Manica Freight Services and DP World, all of whom possess strong financial standing and a long-term commitment to energy consumption. By collaborating with these clients and securing PPAs, we can present foreign investors with attractive and sustainable project opportunities.

What is your approach to obtaining new contracts and clients?
We understand the complexities of adopting solar energy, so we offer a streamlined process to help companies navigate this transition. Our team visits potential clients and proposes a free initial survey using specialised software.
This survey assesses potential electricity generation, identifies optimal installation locations and estimates project costs – all at no cost to the company. Following the survey, we present a detailed proposal outlining the project’s benefits and costs. If they are interested, we can move forward with a formal contract.
However, we recognise that some companies have internal regulations requiring open tenders. In such cases, we fully respect their procurement procedures and only ask to be included in the tender process.

How can AIS contribute to Mozambique’s 2030 electrification goal?
We have the technical expertise, but for large projects, we know partnerships are key. Our team boasts experienced technicians, but as a young company, we lack a complete project portfolio under the AIS name.
We therefore partner with established Portuguese and South African companies. These partners have experience navigating large tenders and securing financing. For example, we’re leading a project at Standard Bank with African Energy Service. They may not have our financial strength, but their project completion history strengthens our joint bid. In such partnerships, we provide financial and technical support while leveraging their team for implementation.
This focus on partnerships allows us to optimise resources and avoid unnecessary team expansion until our project pipeline grows.

Read our latest insights on:

• Mozambique