Solar, Storage to Power Nigeria's Future, Says REAN

Nigeria's clean energy plan received renewed support on Thursday as the Renewable Energy Association of Nigeria (REAN) called for urgent action to speed up the use of renewable energy, attract investment and deliver reliable electricity to more homes and businesses.

The call followed the Solar & Storage Live Nigeria 2026 conference in Lagos, where government representatives, investors, regulators and industry players agreed that practical action is now needed to expand solar power and battery storage.

This development is significant since millions of Nigerians still lack stable electricity. Clean energy gives another path to improve power supply.

The push follows years of efforts to increase renewable energy use in Nigeria. While policies and partnerships have been introduced, industry leaders said faster implementation is now needed to turn plans into projects that improve electricity access, support businesses and strengthen the country's energy system.

Solar and battery storage take centre stage

REAN President Ayo Ademilua said Nigeria's renewable energy sector has reached an important stage where solar power and battery storage are becoming essential parts of the country's electricity future.

He urged government, regulators, financial institutions, development partners and private investors to work more closely to expand clean energy projects.

"The next phase of Nigeria's energy transition must prioritise local manufacturing, affordable financing, technical capacity development, innovation, quality assurance and an enabling policy environment that encourages long-term private sector investment," he said.

Conference participants focused on practical ways to increase renewable energy use, improve energy security and build a stronger electricity market.

Discussions also covered fiscal incentives, local manufacturing, access to finance and the role of battery storage in meeting Nigeria's rising electricity demand.

Industry seeks stronger implementation

REAN Chief Executive Officer Motunrayo Akinfala said the industry has reached the point where implementation should take priority over policy discussions.

"The time has come for us to move from talk to action. We have held the conversations, developed policies and built strong partnerships. Our priority now must be accelerating implementation, mobilising investment, supporting local businesses, enforcing quality standards and delivering reliable clean energy solutions that positively impact millions of Nigerians," she said.

Participants also called for stronger efforts to remove substandard solar products from the Nigerian market through better regulation, product certification, trained installers and public awareness.

REAN said it will continue working with public and private sector partners to support policies that expand electricity access and help Nigeria build a cleaner and more reliable energy system.