Oando and REA Partner on Nigeria’s Largest Solar Power Project, Aiming for 1.2 GW Capacity

Oando Clean Energy and the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for a 1.2-gigawatt (GW) solar project, set to be Nigeria’s largest solar power initiative. The project, which aims to provide electricity to millions of Nigerians, will significantly contribute to the country’s shift towards sustainable energy.

Project Impact and Objectives

The solar project, once completed, will not only expand electricity access but will also help in positioning Nigeria as a leading hub for renewable energy in Africa. Abubakar Abba Aliyu, the Managing Director/CEO of REA, called it a “game-changer”, highlighting its potential to boost the renewable energy sector, improve electricity access, and create jobs through local manufacturing.

“This collaboration is a game-changer, not just in expanding access to electricity but in positioning Nigeria as a renewable energy hub,” said Aliyu during the MoU signing ceremony.

Innovative Features of the Project

Ademola Ogunbanjo, the President & CEO of Oando Clean Energy, emphasized the innovation behind the project, noting that it would feature Africa’s first solar module assembly plant with a recycling line. This facility will repurpose old and dysfunctional solar panels into raw materials, contributing to sustainability efforts in the solar energy industry.

The first phase of the project, which will roll out 600MW of solar power, is scheduled for completion by 2026.

Long-term Goals

The project is expected to expand solar photovoltaic (PV) infrastructure, enhance local manufacturing capacity, and improve energy accessibility across Nigeria. Oando’s commitment to carbon capture and energy transmission underpins the company’s vision of a “just energy transition,” focusing on cleaner and more sustainable energy solutions.

Wale Tinubu, Group CEO of Oando, added that the deployment of electric vehicles (EVs) for public transportation is a clear demonstration of the company’s commitment to adopting cleaner energy as part of its ‘just energy transition’ strategy.