Lawan Idriss

At the Rural Electrification Agency of Nigeria's State‑by‑State Roundtable with Benue State, themed “From Strategy to Impact: Accelerating Private Investment in Benue State’s Renewable Energy Ecosystem,” BENIPA had the opportunity to present Renewable Energy Opportunities in Benue State and engage directly with REA leadership, DFIs, and private investors. The roundtable was a clear moment to signal Benue State Government’s executive commitment to creating a credible, investor‑ready renewable energy market. Under the leadership of His Excellency, Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia, Benue State has taken deliberate, confidence‑building steps to mobilise private capital into the power sector. These commitments were reinforced by the Memorandum of Understanding signed between Benue State and the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), establishing a framework for collaboration to accelerate private investment in decentralised renewable energy across the State. A central pillar of this reform agenda is the establishment of Benue Investment Promotion Agency #BENIPA as a single‑window investment platform. This executive decision is designed to reduce institutional fragmentation, simplify investor engagement, and ensure that renewable energy projects are coordinated, structured, and executed in line with federal delivery programmes and investor expectations. Equally important is the Governor’s commitment to power sector reform through the Benue State Electricity Bill, now advanced in the State House of Assembly. Upon enactment, this will lead to the establishment of the Benue State Electricity Regulatory Commission (SERC)—a corporate body responsible for regulating electricity generation, transmission, system operation, distribution, and supply within Benue State. This reform is fundamental to regulatory certainty, investor protection, and long‑term market confidence. BENIPA’s engagement at the roundtable emphasised the core filters that guide serious renewable energy investment: 1️⃣Policy & Programme Alignment: Alignment with REA and DARES delivery frameworks 2️⃣ Institutional & Regulatory Readiness: Clear institutional roles and a strengthening regulatory environment 3️⃣ Demand Credibility & Productive Use: Energy demand anchored in health facilities, agro‑processing, markets, cold storage, and water systems 4️⃣ Delivery & Risk Discipline: Commercial structures focused on bankability, aggregation, and disciplined risk allocation The roundtable reaffirmed a shared understanding that energy access is a means to economic productivity, job creation, and inclusive growth. Benue State remains committed to working closely with REA, DFIs, developers, and impact investors to translate strategy into measurable impact through decentralised renewable energy solutions. #BENIPA stands ready to engage as the State’s institutional gateway for credible, REA‑aligned renewable energy investments.

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Oando Plc is setting up Africa’s first solar panel assembly plant with a recycling line, targeting 1.2GW capacity by 2026. In partnership with Rural Electrification Agency of Nigeria, it will promote local production, job creation, and panel recycling. A 600MW line is due first. The company also recorded over 53,000 electric rides with just two buses in Q1 2025, cutting 42,779 kg of CO₂. Other moves include a 6MW geothermal pilot, a waste-to-energy study, and $250–$270M upstream CAPEX. #OandoEnergy #SolarNigeria #EnergyTransition #ElectricMobility #GreenAfrica #CleanEnergyNigeria https://lnkd.in/d76CMvTs

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A recent Ember analysis, says the cost of a solar panel can be recouped in less than six months through avoided diesel expenses alone. This rapid payback period makes solar technology particularly attractive for businesses and households struggling with soaring energy costs and heavy reliance on diesel generators. While Nigeria's large energy base means that solar additions may not dramatically shift generation percentages, the substantial savings on diesel consumption represent a significant economic benefit. This is particularly relevant given Nigeria's chronic power supply challenges and the widespread use of expensive diesel generators. Nigeria's position as Africa's second-largest solar importer indicates substantial market demand that local production may not immediately satisfy. Building domestic manufacturing capacity requires significant time and investment. Ember's analysis reveals that refined petroleum imports outweigh solar by a factor of 30 to 107 times in most African countries, highlighting the substantial ground renewables must cover before fundamentally reshaping Nigeria's energy mix. #energy #nigeria #solar

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📗 NEW RESEARCH ALERT! What are the factors and constraints influencing solar PV adoption in the context of Nigeria? To address the critical issue of climate change and bolster energy resilience, Nigeria has ramped up its efforts to shift from fossil fuels toward renewable energy sources. However, despite abundant solar resources, the adoption of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems among Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in various urban and rural contexts of Nigeria continues to be constrained. This study aims to identify the factors influencing solar PV adoption and examines the role of targeted information in influencing preferences and Willingness to Pay (WTP). Data was collected from 412 SMEs and analyzed using a randomized conjoint experiment and randomized control trial. Among the evaluated attributes, reliability of power supply and total setup cost were the significant determinants for solar PV adoption. Manufacturing SMEs demonstrated stronger preferences for reliability and cost-saving attributes than service-oriented SMEs, underscoring the heterogeneity in sectoral priorities. The WTP analysis revealed that SMEs were willing to invest up to approximately 38 % of their annual revenues to secure reliable and sustainable energy solutions. The information treatment increased the likelihood of solar PV adoption by 2 % and WTP by 3.28 %, highlighting the critical role of raising awareness. Furthermore, information treatment reduced the negative impact of higher setup costs and increased preferences for flexible financing models. These results provide actionable insights to design targeted strategies for facilitating Nigeria's path to green energy transition. https://lnkd.in/gFBFWeGV

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Nigeria has unveiled a $750 million renewable electrification initiative targeting 1,350 solar mini-grids nationwide, including 250 that will connect to the national grid. The programme is expected to mobilize $1.1 billion in private-sector funding and improve access to power for underserved communities. Large-scale solar projects under the Energizing Education Programme are providing electricity to universities and teaching hospitals. Government agencies and public institutions are also benefiting from the National Public Sector Solarization Initiative, which reduces reliance on costly generators.

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The Market Assessment Report for the National Content Development Framework in Nigeria is live! This report presents a comprehensive assessment of Nigeria’s electricity infrastructure and maps out localisation opportunities that can accelerate the country’s clean energy transition and support its net-zero ambitions by 2060. In this report, we analyse the clean energy value chain to identify components, activities, and market segments with the highest potential for local manufacturing, assembly, and service delivery across Nigeria’s power sector. As Nigeria continues to advance the implementation of its Energy Transition Plan, this report provides an evidence base to guide policymakers, investors, and developers toward inclusive, competitive, and resilient clean energy value chains. We invite you to read the full Market Assessment Report and share your insights, as they will be valuable in supporting Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to develop a comprehensive National Content Development Framework for the power sector.   #NationalContentDevelopment #Nigeria #CleanEnergy #Power #MarketAssessment #NESIValueChain

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Strengthening Nigeria’s Energy Future: A Convergence of Finance, Partnership, and Purpose Nigeria’s renewable energy landscape is witnessing a dynamic shift through two landmark initiatives: the N100 billion financing facility between the Rural Electrification Agency of Nigeria (REA) and First City Monument Bank Limited (FCMB), and the €20 million Nigeria-Germany partnership on clean energy and workforce development. Though distinct in funding structure and scope, both initiatives are united by a shared vision accelerating energy access and driving the Nigeria's Energy Transition Plan (ETP) towards net-zero emissions by 2060. The REA-FCMB facility, under The World Bank, backed DARES program, prioritizes decentralized energy solutions such as mini-grids, offering a pathway for immediate deployment and employment. In contrast, the Nigeria-Germany initiative emphasizes longer term impact through grants, capacity building, and technical skill development, particularly for youth and underserved communities. As highlighted by Hon. Minister Bagudu, effective coordination will be key to ensuring these programs complement rather than duplicate each other. By aligning their objectives and implementation strategies, both efforts can work synergistically to support President Bola Tinubu’s energy and economic agenda, boosting power supply, creating jobs, and fostering inclusive, sustainable development. The road ahead requires collaboration, clarity in execution, and a shared commitment to impact. If aligned effectively, these initiatives could mark a turning point in the nation’s energy transformation journey. Nigeria Electrification Programme (NEP) #RenewableEnergy #NigeriaEnergyTransition #PresidentTinubu #WorldBank #EnergyForAll #NetZero2060 #ClimateAction

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#BandCSeries | A, B&C of Law Series Regulating the Electricity Market by States: The regulation of electricity markets by individual States marks a significant and progressive shift in Nigeria’s power sector, promising increased efficiency, innovation, and investment opportunities. In this edition of our A, B&C of Law Series, our Associate, Philip Ayanfe, speaks about the benefits and opportunities available to investors who choose to invest in the electricity markets of various States in Nigeria. It’s the dawn of a new era, and States can now regulate the electricity markets within their States, even in areas covered by the national grid. Watch as Philip breaks down how investors can strategically position themselves to take advantage of these emerging opportunities within Nigeria’s growing electricity markets. #BandCofLaw #EnergyLaw #ElectricityMarkets #PowerSectorReform #LegalInsights #BabalakinAndCo #LegalED #LegalSeries #ABCOFLAW

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𝗗𝗮𝘆 23: #YWCI 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗴𝗲 Policy X-ray The Nigeria Rural Electrification Policy of 2005 is a policy designed to increase access to electricity in rural areas through off-grid solutions like mini-grids and solar home systems. The policy which is driven by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), focuses on achieving 75% and 90% electricity access by 2020 and 2030, respectively, while incorporating at least 10% renewable energy by 2025. LandDeck Joins the 30-day journey as we explore the power and promise of renewable energy! #RenewableEnergy #Sustainability #ClimateAction #SolarPower #WindEnergy #EnergyTransition #NWEC #ACF #FMEnvng #GreenFuture #YWCI #NWEC #LandDeck #WithLandDeck #CleanEnergy #SolarHealth #YWCI30Days #Nigeria #EnergyAccess #ClimateAction #CSR Nigeria Wind Energy Council (NWEC) Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) The African Climate Foundation Global Strategic Communications Council (GSCC)

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PART 2 This strategic partnership focuses on grid modernisation, renewable energy integration, energy infrastructure development, and technical cooperation, reinforcing Nigeria’s long-term electricity reform agenda and diversifying international energy partnerships. Dr Abdullahi also represented Nigeria at high-level climate and energy forums in Bonn, Germany, where he presented Nigeria’s clean energy transition pathways, integrated energy planning frameworks, and financing requirements. In Paris, France, ECN engaged in technical discussions on sustainable cooling and refrigeration technologies, advancing the adoption of Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) to reduce electricity demand and carbon emissions. The Commission also delivered presentations during UNGA 80 in New York, USA, and at COP30 in Belém, Brazil, while in Brasília, ECN deepened South–South cooperation through knowledge exchange on integrated energy planning and renewable energy project development. Additionally, a US$10 million investment agreement secured in Dubai, during the Middle East engagement widely referred to as the “Dubai Investors’ Delight”, further reflects growing international investor confidence in Nigeria’s energy transition and ECN’s technical leadership. At the national level, ECN achieved several landmark outcomes that translated policy into tangible impact. One such achievement was the commencement of a 7MW Solar Power Project at Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, a critical infrastructure intervention designed to deliver reliable, clean, and uninterrupted electricity to one of northern Nigeria’s largest tertiary healthcare facilities. The project will significantly reduce dependence on diesel generators, lower operating costs, cut carbon emissions, and improve healthcare service delivery. To advance industrial development and local capacity building, ECN entered into a strategic partnership with LONGi, a global leader in solar manufacturing. This collaboration aims to boost local solar panel manufacturing in Nigeria, support technology transfer, strengthen domestic value chains, create jobs, and drive sustainable growth in the renewable energy sector while reducing reliance on imports. The Commission also inaugurated the National Technical Committees for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency, which now coordinate policy implementation, technical standards, research collaboration, and partnerships with state governments and private-sector stakeholders. MEPS implementation progressed substantially within the cooling and refrigeration sub-sector, translating regulatory frameworks into measurable energy savings, reduced electricity costs, and environmental benefits nationwide. The Barefoot Renewable Energy College in Kogi State, located at the Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH), Osara, moved decisively from concept to reality in 2025, with construction nearing completion by year-end.

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📢 Announcing Our Latest Report: READS Nigeria Report 📢 💡 We're pleased to share the Roadmap for Energy Access in Displacement Settings (READS) Nigeria report, which explores ways to expand #SustainableEnergy access for displaced communities and host populations. It highlights innovative strategies, best practices, and renewable energy solutions for households, businesses, community facilities, and humanitarian operations across Nigeria. ⚡Big thanks to our partner Mercy Corps for their collaboration on this report! ✅The READS programme is implemented by the Global Platform for Action (GPA) Coordination Unit at the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) and funded by the IKEA Foundation. The READS Nigeria Report was co-funded through the Decarbonising Humanitarian Energy Multi-Partner Trust Fund, implemented by United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), UNDP, and NORCAP - part of the Norwegian Refugee Council, with seed funding from International Climate Initiative and the Auswärtiges Amt (Federal Foreign Office) Germany. 🔗 Read the full report: https://lnkd.in/dA2K_Mki 🙏 Thanks to authors Philip Sandwell, PhD, Elif Gül Demir, Ahmad Ibrahim Ahmad, and Megan Täuber for their great work; peer reviewers Aimee Jenks, Eve M., Jordan Fast, Leslie Sligh, Mark Hankins, Moustafa Sowou, Saddam MOHAMED ZODI, and Yanal Almadanat for their valuable feedback; and Élise Taponier for the design!   #EnergyGPA #EnergyAccess #SDG7 #HumanitarianEnergy #GPA #READS #IKEAFoundation #Nigeria

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New Publication Alert! Did you know that renewable off-grid mini-grids are transforming access to clean energy across communities? Our latest review on the Nigeria Off-Grid Solar Knowledge Hub explores the progress, challenges, and innovations driving renewable off-grid mini-grids across the region. Gain valuable insights into how these systems are empowering communities and shaping Africa’s clean energy future. 📖 Read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/gSkPhGsA #RenewableEnergy #EnergyAccess #Sustainability #CleanEnergy #Energypedia

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