Nigeria Bets on Solar Energy as Power Capacity Target Hits 209,000MW

Nigeria is setting its sights on a major transformation of its power sector, with plans to increase electricity generation capacity to 209,000 megawatts (MW) by 2050 while advancing 53 large-scale solar power projects valued at approximately $11 billion across the country.

The ambitious target was revealed in a new report by the International Infrastructure Report (IIR), which highlighted the Federal Government’s growing commitment to renewable energy as part of efforts to bridge the nation's persistent electricity deficit and accelerate economic growth.

According to the report, the proposed solar projects are expected to significantly boost Nigeria’s energy mix, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and expand access to electricity for millions of households and businesses, particularly in underserved rural communities.

Despite being Africa’s largest economy, Nigeria continues to face chronic power shortages, with electricity generation often falling far below national demand. Experts believe that increased investment in solar energy could help address the country's energy challenges while supporting industrialization and job creation.

Recent data from the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) shows that Nigeria’s local solar manufacturing capacity has grown to about 300MW, with an additional 3.7 gigawatts (GW) of projects in the pipeline. The sector also attracted hundreds of millions of dollars in renewable energy investments in recent years, reflecting growing investor confidence in the country’s clean energy market.

Industry stakeholders say the successful implementation of the proposed $11 billion solar projects could position Nigeria as a renewable energy hub in West Africa, while helping the government achieve its long-term energy transition goals and reduce carbon emissions.

As demand for electricity continues to rise across the nation, the government is expected to strengthen policies that encourage private sector participation, local manufacturing, and sustainable energy development to ensure the realization of its 209,000MW target by 2050.