Nigeria imported N237.3 billion worth of solar panels in the last quarter of 2024, underscoring the country’s growing shift towards renewable energy amid a worsening public power supply crisis.

According to data from the Foreign Trade Statistics report by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), the bulk of these imports—N228.9 billion worth—came from China. The category listed as “Photovoltaic cells not assembled in modules or made up into panels” reflects Nigeria’s increasing reliance on alternative energy sources as the national grid remains unreliable.

A Response to a Failing Grid

The surge in solar panel imports highlights the persistent failure of Nigeria’s public power supply, which has long been plagued by inadequate generation, frequent grid collapses, and aging infrastructure. Despite government efforts to improve the electricity sector, millions of households and businesses continue to experience erratic power supply, forcing them to seek alternative solutions.

For years, Nigerians have relied on diesel and petrol generators, but soaring fuel costs—driven by the removal of subsidies and forex volatility—have made solar power a more attractive option. The growing affordability of Chinese-manufactured solar panels has further accelerated adoption, as more homes and businesses look for stable and cost-effective energy solutions.

Solar Energy: A Growing Industry

With worsening grid failures, the demand for solar energy systems has surged, creating a booming market for solar technology in Nigeria. Private companies, startups, and foreign investors are increasingly entering the space, offering off-grid and mini-grid solutions to rural and urban communities alike.

However, while the rise in solar adoption is a positive step toward energy diversification, it also exposes the government’s failure to provide a stable electricity supply. Nigeria, despite being Africa’s largest economy, still struggles with an electricity access rate of around 55%, leaving nearly half of its population without reliable power.

The Way Forward

The increasing reliance on solar power should serve as a wake-up call for policymakers to accelerate reforms in the electricity sector. Investment in grid expansion, transmission infrastructure, and renewable energy incentives could help reduce dependence on imports and strengthen Nigeria’s domestic energy production.

Until then, Nigerians will continue to turn to solar solutions—not by choice, but out of necessity—reflecting the harsh reality of a nation still battling one of its most critical infrastructure failures.