This blog was co-authored by Anant Nautiyal.
A single-point of integration to accelerate the pay-as-you-go (PAYG) industry
In a previous blog, we highlighted how the Instant Payment Notification (IPN) Hub, an industry utility created by the GSMA, has been connecting mobile operators and PAYG utility providers through a single integration – bringing fundamental utility services (such as electricity, water and sanitation) to off-grid populations.
Figure 1: The future envisioned by the IPN Hub
One million unique payment transactions crossed
We are delighted to report that the IPN Hub has now processed notifications for over one million unique payment transactions. Since its launch, the hub has supported the PAYG solar sector in Rwanda to provide up to 86,000 households with life-changing clean energy.
The Hub has also expanded geographically. While it continues to thrive in Rwanda, the Hub is now available in Uganda and will soon enable several PAYG service providers to receive instant notification of mobile money payments in this market. The Ugandan market provides a platform beyond solar, including payment for school fees and sanitation services, all of which the IPN Hub can support. Beyond Uganda, there are plans to expand the Hub to Tanzania, Mozambique, Zambia, Senegal and Mali among other markets, in line with the growing demand of the PAYG industry.
Additional services on the way
Testimonies received from a diverse set of stakeholders, including mobile operators, service providers and end users of PAYG solar services, indicate that the Hub has had positive impact in a number of ways, including smoother integrations for service providers; instant payment notifications and service provision for customers; and reduced manual work for both operators and service providers.
A new reporting tool gives visibility on performance and transaction data for each member.
We welcome mobile operators, and PAYG services providers to join us in expanding the IPN Hub.
For more information or to get involved, email us at [email protected] and read our report Instant Payment Notification (IPN) Hub: Accelerating the Pay-As-You-Go (PAYG) Utilities sector through mobile money.