- Oando Clean Energy and REA signed a deal for a 1.2GW solar project, which aims to deliver sustainable energy to millions of Nigerians.
- The first phase (600MW) is set for the 2026 rollout and will focus on solar infrastructure, local manufacturing, job creation, and energy access.
- The project includes Africa’s first solar module assembly plant with a recycling line, promoting circular energy solutions and sustainability.
Oando Clean Energy and the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for a 1.2GW solar project. This initiative will deliver sustainable energy to millions of Nigerians, marking a major leap in the country’s renewable energy sector.
Ademola Ogunbanjo, President and CEO of Oando Clean Energy, highlighted the project’s groundbreaking impact. “This plant will serve as Africa’s first solar module assembly facility with a recycling line. We will recycle old, faulty solar panels into useful raw materials,” he said.
The project focuses on driving solar infrastructure development and expanding local manufacturing capacity. By promoting sustainability and recycling, it addresses Nigeria’s growing need for clean, renewable energy. It also aims to boost domestic production, reduce reliance on imported solar panels, and create economic growth opportunities.
REA Managing Director and CEO Abba Aliyu praised the collaboration’s potential to transform Nigeria’s energy sector. “This deal will change the game, not just by expanding electricity access but positioning Nigeria as a leader in renewable energy,” Aliyu said. He emphasised how the partnership will increase energy access in rural areas and create jobs for Nigerians.
The project’s first phase will deliver 600 megawatts by 2026. This phase will significantly expand Nigeria’s solar photovoltaic (PV) infrastructure, providing clean energy to millions of people. The 600MW rollout will play a key role in improving energy accessibility and reducing the country’s dependence on fossil fuels.
Ogunbanjo also stressed that the project aligns with Nigeria’s climate goals. “We commit to reducing carbon emissions while expanding energy access. This project will meet both objectives,” he added. By focusing on recycling, Oando Clean Energy ensures long-term sustainability and promotes circular energy solutions.
The solar project will directly and indirectly create jobs within the energy sector. Local solar panel manufacturing will lower costs and provide thousands of new jobs. The assembly plant will focus on producing high-quality solar panels tailored to Nigeria’s specific energy needs.
In addition to creating jobs, the project will drive economic growth by enabling local solar technology production. It supports Nigeria’s efforts to diversify its energy mix, reduce reliance on oil, and increase renewable energy use. Aliyu emphasised the importance of the partnership in meeting Nigeria’s renewable energy targets.
This project will provide clean power to millions of homes and strengthen Nigeria’s energy independence. Oando Clean Energy and REA’s partnership marks a critical milestone in Nigeria’s renewable energy development. As the country moves toward greater sustainability, the project will help shape its future energy landscape.
The solar plant, with its innovative recycling facility, will set a new standard for Africa’s renewable energy sector. Through large-scale energy initiatives like this, Nigeria will lead Africa’s clean energy revolution.