FG to halt solar panel imports, boost local production for clean energy transition

The federal government has announced plans to halt the importation of solar panels to promote local manufacturing and accelerate Nigeria’s transition to clean energy.

Uche Nnaji, minister of science and technology, spoke during the recent unveiling of the NEV T6 electric buses in Abuja.

Nnaji said the move aligns with presidential order which prioritises local content in science, engineering, and technology.

The minister noted that Nigeria has the capacity to produce its own solar panels, with the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) playing a key role in local manufacturing.

He projected that as local production expands, more homes and institutions would transition to off-grid power solutions.

“We have lithium in abundance here in Nigeria, so Mr. President is already taking action. We are adding value to our raw materials. The lithium we have here will be processed and used as batteries for these vehicles,” he added.

Addressing the country’s power challenges, Nnaji said the government is developing mini-grid solutions to support hospitals, institutions, and homes.

“If you look at our budgets, we have what is called mini-grids all over the place. In less than three or four months, you will start seeing our hospitals and institutions being powered by solar,” he said.

“Again, we are saving the environment; ware putting in place non-carbon emission infrastructure. So, we are creating power everywhere. It is not about using diesel, it is not about using PMS, it is not about generating the kinds of power that will pollute the environment.

“With NASENI here, you know that we have panels. It has a factory that has started producing solar panels and other private individuals are also producing solar panels as we speak.

“So, all we need to do is, even through science and technology, through our Presidential Executive Order No. 5, we will stop all these importations of solar panels. 

“We will support our local industries to grow and very soon, most houses will go off-grid. Personally, I have been off-grid for over three years and it is working.”