The Cellar Bakery Reduces Energy Costs by 40% through C9 Impact’s Solar Project
Centennial’s C9-Impact Initiative is dedicated to financing solar and battery energy storage projects for small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in African countries.
Kigali, Rwanda (January 26, 2026) - The Cellar Bakery, a leading producer of baked goods in Rwanda, has significantly reduced its electricity costs through a solar energy project delivered by C9 Impact. The Cellar operates with the energy profile of a small industrial facility, relying on continuous refrigeration, mixers, proofers, ovens, and production equipment. As a result, electricity represents one of The Cellar’s largest operating expenses.
To address these costs - at a time when electricity for small businesses in Rwanda average approximately $0.27 per kWh - The Cellar engaged C9 Impact to design and install a grid-tied rooftop solar project tailored to the facility’s daily energy requirements.
The project was engineered to offset peak daytime loads, including bakery production cycles and restaurant operations, while integrating seamlessly with existing electrical infrastructure. The installation was completed in a matter of days and without interrupting The Cellar’s operations.
C9 Impact’s financing model, which requires no upfront cost from its customers, enabled The Cellar to start saving on electricity immediately. The Cellar pays only for the solar electricity produced - at a lower price than traditional grid power. Since commissioning, monthly electricity expenses have declined by more than 40%. The Cellar has reinvested these operational savings into production improvements in production, customer service, and operational enhancements.
The project demonstrates how solar energy can deliver tangible, near-term economic benefits for energy-intensive small- and medium-sized enterprises.
About Centennial
Since 2014, Centennial has delivered solar and battery energy storage projects at commercial and industrial properties for a customer base that spans Fortune 500 companies, publicly traded REITs, and a wide range of commercial and industrial property owners. Centennial’s portfolio of operational and contracted assets totals more than $350 million in capital investment and includes both on-site and front-of-the-meter projects.
Through C9 Impact, Centennial provides access to affordable, reliable and environmentally sustainable energy projects for small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in African countries.
For more information on C9 Impact, please visit: www.C9Impact.com