REAN kicks as FG plans solar panels import ban

The Renewable Energy Association of Nigeria has called on the Federal Government not to implement its plan to ban the importation of solar panels.

The association, in a statement made available to our correspondent yesterday, said the move to ban solar imports in Nigeria is a decision that demands careful reconsideration.

Recently, the Minister of Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, said the Federal Government is willing to support local manufacturing of solar panels while restricting imports.

Nnaji highlighted Nigeria’s capacity to produce solar panels through the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure.

“With NASENI here, you know that we have panels. It has a factory that has started producing solar panels, and other private individuals are also producing solar panels as we speak. So, all we need to do is, even through science and technology, through our Presidential Executive Order No. 5, we will stop all these importations of solar panels. We will support our local industries to grow,” he said.

Reacting, the REAN said it understands the intent of the government to promote local manufacturing, strengthen the economy, and ensure energy security, stressing, however, that the government must create an enabling environment for all players.

The President of REAN, Mr Ayo Ademilua, noted in the statement that the government has commendable aspirations which the REAN wholeheartedly supports.

“However, creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive must come before any restrictive measures that could stifle progress and inadvertently hurt the very industry the government seeks to empower.

“Solar energy has become a beacon of hope for millions of Nigerians who remain underserved by the national grid. Businesses, communities, and individuals rely on solar solutions to power homes, schools, hospitals, and enterprises. The renewable energy sector has grown significantly, attracting investment and fostering innovation. A ban on solar imports, without first strengthening local production capabilities, risks derailing this progress,“ Ademilua warned.

According to him, local capacity could not be achieved overnight if the government fails to address certain challenges and hurdles.

He continued, “Manufacturing is not built overnight. For local production to scale and compete globally, manufacturers need access to finance, infrastructure, technology, and skilled labour.

]The current reality presents hurdles—high production costs, supply chain inefficiencies, and limited access to raw materials. Expecting local manufacturers to meet national demand without addressing these challenges is unrealistic and counterproductive.

“Restricting imports too soon could lead to unintended consequences. Prices may rise, making solar solutions less accessible for ordinary Nigerians.”

The REAN boss argued that businesses that depend on imported components may struggle to stay afloat, leading to job losses instead of job creation.

He stated that the momentum the renewable energy sector has gained could slow, discouraging investors who see uncertainty in the policy environment.

He advised the government to implement a phased approach instead of an outright ban.

“Rather than an outright ban, a phased approach that nurtures local manufacturing while keeping the market open to necessary imports would be more effective. Incentivising local producers through tax breaks, grants, and infrastructure support would build the foundation needed for long-term sustainability. Encouraging partnerships between international companies and Nigerian firms would facilitate knowledge transfer and technology exchange, strengthening the industry from within,” Ademilua noted.

He maintained that Nigeria’s energy transition is a journey, not a single policy decision, and for a thriving renewable energy sector, the government must act as an enabler, not an obstacle.

He advised, “The focus should be on fostering a competitive and sustainable industry—one that supports local businesses without cutting off the lifeline that imports currently provide.

“REAN remains committed to working alongside policymakers to develop solutions that balance national interests with industry realities. We urge the government to reconsider the proposed ban and instead prioritise building a resilient, self-sustaining solar industry that truly serves the Nigerian people.”