Nigeria can replicate global success with decentralised solar energy, says ECN - The Nation Newspaper (2025)

April 3, 2025 by Juliana Agbo

The Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) has emphasised the country’s potential to harness decentralised solar energy solutions to power rural communities and reduce dependence on the national grid.

Director-General of ECN, Engr. Mustapha Abdullahi, stated this in a report titled Building a Sustainable Future: A Strategic Pathway to Innovation and Development through Sustainable Solutions via Renewable Energy.

Abdullahi, highlighted the transformative impact of renewable energy investments.

He envisioned a future where major roads are illuminated by solar-powered LED lights, and government buildings, as well as industrial parks, operate on hybrid renewable energy sources.

Abdullahi cited global examples such as Germany and China, where smart grids, solar-powered street lighting, and energy-efficient transportation networks have improved connectivity and reduced costs.

He noted that under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, a clear roadmap has been established to achieve a sustainable energy future.

According to Abdullahi, the Federal Government has taken practical steps, including the development of Nigeria’s first gazetted National Energy Policy and its implementation plan.

Other key initiatives, he said, include; localising and domesticating renewable energy solutions, fostering industries for the local production of solar PV panels and batteries, establishing large-scale Solar PV module assembly plants, a modular Green Hydrogen plant, and a Bio-Methanol plant to expand energy access, lower costs, and enhance energy security and investing in solar energy to boost economic development, following successful examples from Sweden, Denmark, and Morocco’s Noor Ouarzazate Solar Complex.

Abdullahi stressed that renewable energy plays a crucial role in addressing security and employment challenges.

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He suggested integrating solar-powered security cameras in high-risk zones and using tech-driven agricultural solutions to create jobs, particularly for Nigeria’s youth population, which is over 60% under 25 years old.

He noted that training programs in solar panel technology, smart agriculture, and energy management could generate employment while addressing power deficits.

He also highlighted the potential for renewable energy to revolutionize education. Countries like Finland and South Korea have successfully used digital tools and smart classrooms powered by renewable energy.

Abdullahi envisioned a Nigeria where rural schools have uninterrupted electricity through solar microgrids, enabling students in remote areas to access digital learning platforms.

He said: “The Federal Government has allocated funds for the Solarisation of Critical Infrastructure initiative, which will be implemented by the ECN.

“This project aims to install up to 2-megawatt solar hybrid mini-grids in federal universities, teaching hospitals, and other public institutions across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. An energy audit is currently underway to determine the specific needs of these institutions, with project completion targeted by year-end. Abdullahi further noted that investing in renewable energy technologies and smart solutions will accelerate Nigeria’s development, ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future.

“In an era where technological innovation shapes national destinies, Nigeria must embrace renewable energy solutions not as an option, but as a necessity, to leapfrog development hurdles and secure a prosperous energy future.”

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