Deadline for Access Power's $7 million contest nears

Officials from Access Power have begun counting down the days remaining in its competition for $7 million in renewable energy funding.

The company has been soliciting proposals for renewable energy projects in Africa since mid-February. Applicants have until May 20 to get their proposals in, at which time they'll be judged by a panel of four development and finance officials.

“We want to make sure that all local developers across the African continent are aware of this fantastic opportunity to secure valuable funding and expertise that can turn an idea for a renewable energy project into reality," Access Power Program Manager Nasir Aku said.

Finalists will be asked to present their project ideas at the Africa Energy Forum in London June 22. Three winners will split the $7 million prize.

Access Power, which was founded in 2012, holds a $1 billion investment portfolio of projects carried out in 20 countries across Africa.