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Renewable energy stakeholders advocate for solar generator adoption in Nigeria amid rising fuel costs
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
Renewable energy stakeholders are intensifying calls for the widespread adoption of solar generators in Nigeria, presenting them as a practical and cost-effective alternative to petrol and diesel generators. This initiative is a key focus of discussions leading up to the inaugural Nigeria Solar Generator Day, where policymakers, investors, renewable energy firms, and development partners will explore strategies to accelerate the deployment of solar-powered systems nationwide. A joint statement from ZE-Gen, GOGLA, and VeraSol highlighted that Nigeria's demand for reliable electricity and increasing fuel costs create a significant opportunity for solar generator solutions. A recent ZE-Gen report, "Understanding Nigeria’s Fossil Fuel Generator Challenge," estimates that 41 million small businesses and 17 million households currently rely on petrol and diesel generators, spending approximately $8 billion annually on fuel. The report suggests that a standard solar generator system could meet up to 85 percent of many users' typical electricity demand, eliminating recurring fuel expenses and protecting consumers from volatile energy prices. Nigeria is identified as one of the largest generator-dependent markets globally, with over 86 million people lacking electricity access. Lily Beadle, Programme Director at ZE-Gen, noted that efforts are now shifting from demonstrating solar technology viability to expanding its reach across the country, emphasizing the need for increased investm
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Must ReadThe Dangote Petroleum Refinery could enhance its standing in the global aviation fuel market following Russia's decision to extend its jet fuel export ban until November 30, 2026. Russia announced the restriction to secure domestic aviation fuel supply amidst ongoing attacks on its refining infrastructure, which have disrupted key refineries and export facilities. Although Russia is not a primary jet fuel exporter, this development contributes to concerns about tightening global supply, especially as demand recovers and geopolitical pressures affect supply routes. Europe has increasingly sought jet fuel from the Atlantic Basin, including West Africa, to compensate for reduced supplies from traditional Gulf sources. The Dangote refinery has become a significant new player, having exported substantial volumes of aviation fuel to Europe and supplying over 95% of Nigeria’s domestic Jet A1 demand. Between March and April 2026, Dangote shipped approximately 1.1 billion liters of jet fuel to Europe. In April alone, the refinery exported about 615 million liters of aviation fuel as part of 1.66 billion liters of refined products, driven by strong international demand and supply chain disruptions. The combination of rising geopolitical risks and refinery disruptions in major producing regions is strengthening the role of new large-scale refiners like Dangote in the global aviation fuel trade. Market reports indicate Dangote is benefiting from strong demand in Europe and other regions
President Bola Tinubu announced that his administration has ended the practice of public infrastructure projects facing prolonged delays and budget cycles. This declaration was made during the commissioning of the full-scope development of Arterial Road N5, Obafemi Awolowo Way, which connects Life Camp Junction to Ring Road III in Dape District, Abuja. Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, President Tinubu emphasized that infrastructure is a measure of a nation's seriousness and reaffirmed his commitment to transforming Abuja into a capital city that reflects Nigeria's growing population, economic aspirations, and national identity. He noted that the N5 project, awarded to Julius Berger with a 15-month timeline, was conceived, funded, and completed under the current administration, unlike past projects that became permanent budget items. The President stated that the completed N5 corridor creates faster connections across Dape, Karmo, Gwarinpa I, Kado, Idu, and Mbora, improving access to the Idu Industrial District and resolving a notorious traffic bottleneck at Life Camp Junction. He commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, for his role in driving infrastructure execution and called on residents and businesses to fulfill tax obligations to support further development. Minister Wike highlighted the unprecedented pace of development in satellite towns under the Tinubu administration, while the Minister of State for the FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahm
The Anambra State government is collaborating with the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council PEBEC to transform the state into a destination hub and realize its “Vision 2070” agenda. This partnership, announced by the Secretary to the State Government, Chiamaka Nnake, during a ‘Nationwide Town hall and State Engagement Tour’ meeting, aims to simplify business operations in Anambra State and the wider South-East region. Nnake stated that the initiative aligns with Governor Prof. Chukwuma Soludo’s vision to improve the state’s business climate and foster transparency. The Director General of PEBEC, Princess Zahrah Audu, highlighted that the nationwide tour seeks to strengthen business relationships and create a more conducive environment for investors across Nigeria. Audu emphasized President Bola Tinubu’s vision for economic determination at state and local levels, and commended the Anambra State Government for its support. Chukwukadibia Okoye, the State Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, noted that the PEBEC program will improve the ease of doing business, attract investors, reduce bottlenecks, and boost investment promotion, all contributing to Anambra’s goal of becoming Nigeria’s destination hub by 2070.