GEAPP: Decentralised renewable energy solutions key to low carbon industrial future

The Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet is advocating for decentralised renewable energy solutions as the key to a low-carbon industrial future. Fauzia Okediji, Manager of Utility Innovation at the Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet, discussed the importance of locally produced solar panels, batteries, and other clean energy components in paving the way for a self-sustaining industrial sector in Nigeria and beyond. Okediji highlighted the need for domestic capital to support the development of renewable energy technologies and infrastructure on the continent. Okediji pointed out the significant growth in the market over the past few years, attributing it to an alliance approach that involves a public-private and philanthropic partnership model. She mentioned two key facilities, the Energy Transition and Access Facility for Africa (ETAPA) and a working capital facility, that provide local currency debt and low-cost financing to distributed renewable energy developers. These initiatives aim to facilitate the deployment of renewable energy solutions in Nigeria, tailored to national priorities. Nigeria's potential to become a regional hub for manufacturing solar panels, batteries, and other clean energy technologies was also discussed. Okediji highlighted the establishment of the GIAP base consortium, which aims to roll out five gigawatts of projects across ten African countries, including Nigeria. By pooling resources and technologies through a multi-stakeholder approach, the consortium seeks to enhance the value chain for manufacturing battery energy storage systems. The conversation also delved into the importance of strengthening local supply chains and cost-cutting strategies in the transition to green industrialization. Okediji noted that while Nigeria heavily relies on imports for renewable energy assets, initiatives like the DART program have helped address equipment financing challenges. The goal is to encourage original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to set up local manufacturing facilities in Nigeria, in response to the high demand for renewable solutions in the country. As Nigeria strives to meet its Mission 300 targets and promote cross-border energy trade, sustaining the momentum in renewable energy deployment and accelerating both energy supply and demand remain crucial. The positive signals from initiatives like the DART program and the growing interest from development partners indicate a shift towards local manufacturing and increased self-reliance in the renewable energy sector. Overall, the push for decentralised renewable energy solutions in Nigeria reflects a broader shift towards sustainable and low-carbon industrial practices. As the country continues to prioritize renewable energy investments and strengthen its local manufacturing capabilities, the path to a greener and more self-sufficient industrial future comes into clearer focus.