The federal government has insisted on stopping the importation of photovoltaic solar panels into Nigeria, stating that this issue has already resulted in an expenditure of 200 billion naira.
On Monday, during a roundtable discussion held in Victoria Island involving the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) and the Lagos State Government, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of REA, Abba Aliyu, made these remarks.
The REA and the Lagos State Government traveled to Lagos with the purpose of signing an agreement for the MoU aimed at providing electricity to remote areas within Lagos.
Aliyu states that initiatives are currently underway to alter the prevailing narrative and establish local production of renewable energy equipment within the nation.
He expressed his belief that Lagos, as the hub of excellence, will spearhead that localization initiative.
More than ₦200 billion has been expended on the importing of photovoltaic panels into the nation.
“Although we require such imports, our organization aims to focus on producing these renewable devices domestically. With Lagos as the hub of expertise, it will spearhead a comprehensive effort towards achieving this localization,” he stated.
He stated that the agency has already outlined the development of PV panel manufacturing facilities in Lagos.
There was a photovoltaic panel production facility located in Ikotun, Lagos.
“They began with 10 megawatts, however, through their partnership with REA, they expanded and raised their capacity by another 100 megawatts,” he stated.
The head of REA suggested that the organization is currently in negotiations to sign a collaborative development pact with Green World for establishing a lithium battery manufacturing facility in Lagos.
According to him, this is a $150m investment taking place in Lagos.
Recently, Minister Uche Nnaji of Science and Technology stated that the federal government is prepared to endorse domestic production of solar panels while limiting imports.
Nnaji emphasized Nigeria’s ability to manufacture solar panels via the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure.
“With NASENI involved, rest assured that we possess solar panels. The organization operates a facility that has commenced production of such units, with additional individual entities currently engaged in their manufacture too. Consequently, per our Presidential Executive Order No. 5, we aim to cease all imports of solar panels. Instead, we intend to bolster and nurture our domestic industrial sector,” he stated.
However, the REAN intervened, stating that solar energy has emerged as a source of hope for countless Nigerians still lacking access to the national power grid.
“Companies, neighborhoods, and people depend on solar solutions to energize residences, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and businesses. The renewable energy industry has expanded considerably, drawing investments and encouraging new developments. Imposing a ban on imported solar products without initially boosting domestic manufacturing could jeopardize this advancement,” stated the REAN.
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