Nigeria to Build 1GW Solar Factory

Key Figures & Findings: Nigeria’s Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has signed a landmark agreement to establish the country’s first 1 GW solar panel manufacturing plant. The new entity, Solarge Nigeria Limited, will be jointly owned by REA, the Infrastructure Corporation of Nigeria (InfraCorp), and Netherlands-based Solarge BV. Under the deal, REA has committed to purchasing at least 200 MW of solar modules annually for five years, ensuring stable demand while supporting national electrification programs for schools, hospitals, and public institutions.

Statistics & Insights: The plant is expected to reach 50% local content within its first three years. The initial 200 MW annual offtake will total 1 GW over five years, directly feeding the National Public Sector Solarisation Initiative (NPSSI) and the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund. Nigeria’s government earlier launched a $295 million accelerated program to push electricity access to 30% by 2027, laying the groundwork for this larger-scale effort.

Future Implications: If fully realized, the factory could position Nigeria as a regional solar manufacturing hub while reducing reliance on imports. By 2030, it may enable wider technology transfer, industrial job creation, and stronger local supply chains, supporting the country’s clean energy transition and energy sovereignty goals.

Source: The Whistler Newspaper

Quick Take: Nigeria launches 1 GW solar factory, with REA securing 200 MW yearly offtake to drive electrification and energy sovereignty.