In a groundbreaking initiative, Nigeria is witnessing the transformative power of Chinese-sponsored solar projects, bringing light and hope to rural communities grappling with frequent blackouts. Under the 2021 agreement between Nigeria and China to enhance renewable electricity, a tangible outcome emerged with the donation of 200 sets of off-grid photovoltaic (solar) equipment to Nigeria’s rural areas.

Facilitated by PowerChina-Kunming Engineering Corporation and Yunnan province’s Department of Commerce, this benevolent gesture falls under the umbrella of the “Green Energy Africa, One Belt, One Road Lighting Up Thousands of Households” initiative. China’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s renewable energy aspirations is turning into a beacon of progress for communities long overlooked.

Magaji Shehu, the 83-year-old head of Gidan Yunfa community in Sokoto, expressed the profound impact of the solar equipment, describing it as a “dream” realized for the villagers who had resigned themselves to living without electricity. Shehu vividly contrasts the past, where villagers retired early due to the absence of light, with the present scene of children playing under streetlights. The electrification project has ushered in a new era of joy and well-being for the community.

Garba Ali, a 34-year-old farmer, echoes the sentiments of his fellow villagers, asserting that off-grid solar surpasses the national grid in terms of reliability. The irregularities and unreliability of the national grid have prompted communities to embrace solar solutions as a more dependable and sustainable source of energy.

Chinese firms, recognizing the immense potential and necessity of solar power in Nigeria, have stepped in to provide affordable solar panels, street lights, energy-efficient bulbs, rechargeable lamps, and fans. Amadi Joshua, an electrical engineer with AY Global Energy, attests to the widespread adoption of solar products across Nigeria, emphasizing the importance of Chinese contributions to the nation’s clean energy landscape.

Nuhu Isaac, a sales representative with Beebeejump Technology, highlights the universal relevance of solar power in Nigeria, transcending economic disparities. With a presence in all 36 states, the company utilizes flexible billing and payment solutions to broaden access to off-grid solar products.

The optimism for Nigeria’s solar future is endorsed by Babatunde Fashola, the former minister of works, power, and housing. Fashola sees the potential for clean energy to surpass conventional sources, fueled by rising diesel costs and the increasing market penetration of renewable energy solutions.

Chinese companies are poised to play a pivotal role in Nigeria’s solar evolution, as evidenced by the substantial investments and projects outlined in the US$4 billion worth of “letters of intent” received by the Nigerian government at the 3rd Belt and Road Forum in Beijing. While grid collapses and blackouts persist, the rapid development of off-grid solar solutions becomes imperative to achieve the government’s target of universal energy access by 2030.

This article was made possible through a grant from the Africa-China Reporting Project at the Wits Centre for Journalism at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg. The author’s views expressed herein are independent and do not necessarily reflect the views of the granting institution.