• Energy Commission partners with China’s LONGi to build a solar panel factory.
• New projects aim to raise local content in clean energy manufacturing.
• Initiative supports Nigeria’s rural electrification and energy independence goals.

The Energy Commission of Nigeria finalized a partnership on Thursday, October 16, with Chinese solar manufacturer LONGi, one of the world’s largest producers of photovoltaic panels. The agreement provides for the establishment of a local solar panel factory to strengthen domestic production and support the country’s clean energy access policy.

This initiative forms part of Nigeria’s broader strategy to expand renewable energy manufacturing. In September, InfraCorp, the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), and Dutch company Solarge BV announced the creation of Solarge Nigeria Ltd, tasked with building another solar panel plant with a target of 50% local content within three years. Earlier in March, the REA also signed a contract with Oando Clean Energy to set up a similar facility under the World Bank–funded DARES program.

These developments reflect a deliberate effort to localize the clean technology value chain. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), Africa accounted for only 0.5% of the global clean energy technology market in 2023 and less than 0.1% of global manufacturing value. Yet, the IEA notes that rising domestic demand, competitive production costs, and relatively low-carbon power generation give Africa a chance to close the industrial gap.

For Nigeria, home to the world’s largest population without electricity access and where solar power is central to rural electrification efforts, local component production is no longer just an industrial goal but a strategic necessity. By reducing import dependence and building a stronger technological base, the country aims to secure lasting energy sovereignty.