FG rejects immediate solar import ban to protect energy transition, savings

The Nigerian government has decided not to ban solar panel imports outright, after hearing concerns from business leaders and renewable energy advocates. The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Kingsley Udeh, made the announcement, stating that the focus would be on ensuring imported solar panels meet required standards instead of stopping their entry.

China is a major supplier of solar panels to Nigeria, exporting 2.4 gigawatts in the past year worth $269 million. If solar power fully replaced diesel generation, the country could save over $700 million annually. Udeh emphasized the importance of providing quality solar products, either locally manufactured or imported. However, industry experts urged the government to create a clear policy framework to support local manufacturing without making solar power unaffordable.