- NESP and the Federal Ministry of Power launched two Energy Efficiency Networks in Kano to help SMEs cut energy costs, improve productivity, and reduce emissions.
- Industry leaders and government officials back the initiative, highlighting its potential to stabilise power usage, attract investment, and support sustainable economic growth.
The Nigerian Energy Support Programme (NESP), in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Power, has launched two Energy Efficiency Networks (EEN) in Kano State. This move aims to enhance energy efficiency and increase access to sustainable electricity, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Funded jointly by the German Development Cooperation and the European Union, the initiative seeks to help industries lower energy costs, increase productivity, and support environmental goals.
During the event launch, Dr. Segun Ajayi-Kadir, Director General of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), emphasised the heavy burden that energy costs place on businesses.
He stated, “Energy now makes up more than 45% of total production costs, which significantly undermines industrial performance across the country.”
Moreover, he explained that SMEs are particularly hard hit. “The cost of alternative energy increased by 42.3% from ₦781.68 billion in 2023 to ₦1.11 trillion in 2024. That is not sustainable,” he said.
Recognising the importance of the new networks, Ajayi-Kadir praised NESP for taking timely action. He noted that the programme will allow manufacturers to identify cost-saving measures, optimise energy use, and reduce carbon emissions.
He added, “I am confident that the Kano networks will succeed because they will help industries adopt energy-efficient processes and improve profitability.”
Meanwhile, Alhaji Shehu Sagagi, Kano State’s Commissioner for Investment, Commerce, Industry, and Cooperatives, expressed the state government’s full support.
He said, “This initiative will cut operational costs for local industries and attract new investment. We thank the EU and German cooperation partners for supporting this effort.”
Furthermore, Inga Stefanowicz, Head of Green and Digital Economy at the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, highlighted the broader economic benefits of the initiative.
“Energy efficiency is a powerful tool for inclusive green growth,” she explained. “By reducing energy intensity and carbon emissions while increasing competitiveness, this initiative can accelerate Nigeria’s sustainable development.”
In addition, the Energy Efficiency Networks will create peer-learning platforms where participating industries can exchange best practices, collaborate on solutions, and jointly address energy challenges.
Since its launch, the programme has drawn intense interest from local stakeholders, signalling a new chapter in energy-conscious industrial development in Nigeria.