The Major Energies Marketers Association of Nigeria (MEMAN) successfully hosted a webinar as part of the MEMAN Competency Centre Series, focusing on renewable energy and the energy transition through solar energy in Nigeria. The event provided an opportunity for stakeholders across the energy sector to discuss the potential and challenges of solar energy adoption in Nigeria.
The webinar began with welcoming remarks from Mr. Godwin Jarikre, Head Supply, HSEQ, and Technical at MEMAN. He extended greetings on behalf of the CEO, and acknowledged the presence of distinguished guests, including representatives from the Lagos State Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, the Energy Commission of Nigeria, TotalEnergies Marketing Nigeria Plc, TARANA Energy, and the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission. Mr. Jarikre emphasized the importance of the workshop in advancing Nigeria’s energy transition agenda.
The first keynote address was delivered by Engr. Abiola Kosegbe, Permanent Secretary of Lagos State Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources. The discussion emphasized the importance of collaboration among various stakeholders, including government agencies, to advocate for policies supporting the growth of the solar energy sector in Nigeria. The speaker highlighted the transformative potential of renewable energy, particularly solar, wind, and hydro, in meeting Nigeria’s energy needs while reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
Lagos State has set an ambitious target to generate 50% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030, with initiatives like the “Solar for All” program playing a crucial role in achieving this goal. The speaker stressed the need for continued investment in infrastructure, supportive policies, and collaboration to sustain the growth of renewable energy in Lagos and across Nigeria.
The second keynote address was delivered by Engr. Sulu Ibrahim, Head Renewable Energy at the Energy Commission of Nigeria. His presentation focused on advancing solar photovoltaic (PV) technology in Nigeria, highlighting several key points:
- Potential of Solar PV Technology: Solar PV holds immense potential to transform Nigeria’s energy landscape, with applications ranging from home systems to large-scale utility projects.
- Advancing Solar Technologies: There is a critical need to adopt the latest solar technologies to ensure cost-effectiveness and value for money.
- Role of Policy Frameworks: The importance of policy documents such as the National Energy Policy and the Renewable Energy Action Plan in guiding the development of solar energy was underscored.
- Local Content and Mineral Resources: The strategic use of Nigeria’s mineral resources, such as lithium, is crucial for supporting local content and driving the renewable energy industry.
The webinar featured a series of presentations and discussions, addressing various aspects of solar energy, including:
- Standards and Certification: The need for enforcing standards for solar equipment and the certification of installers to ensure quality and safety in solar projects.
- Technological Innovations: Exploration of advancements such as bifacial solar panels, nanotechnology coatings, and perovskite solar cells, which are enhancing the efficiency and durability of solar systems.
- Regulatory and Policy Insights: Updates on regulatory changes, including the liberalization of Nigeria’s power sector and new regulations supporting mini-grids and embedded solar plants.
- Challenges and Opportunities: The session highlighted challenges such as high installation costs and the need for financial incentives, while also noting the significant growth potential for the solar sector by 2030.
The webinar concluded with a discussion on future steps for advancing the solar energy sector in Nigeria:
- Enhanced Regulatory Frameworks: Continued development of regulatory frameworks to support solar energy adoption and integration into the national grid.
- Public-Private Partnerships: The importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in driving investment and innovation in renewable energy.
- Capacity Building and Research: Ongoing efforts to build capacity, promote research, and raise public awareness of the benefits of solar energy.
The webinar concluded with a video presentation showcasing sustainability efforts by MEMAN members, particularly the integration of solar energy in their operations. The session ended with closing remarks, thanking all participants and encouraging them to apply the insights gained. Attendees were also invited to submit further questions via email.
The MEMAN Competency Center remains committed to advancing the renewable energy agenda in Nigeria and will continue to provide platforms for knowledge sharing and collaboration among stakeholders.
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