Nigeria is aiming for a significant shift in its energy landscape, with the Rural Electrification Agency projecting that Nigeria solar power goals will result in solar accounting for 50 per cent of the power generation mix by 2029. Speaking at the recently concluded 25th Nigerian Oil and Gas (NOG) Energy Week in Abuja, the managing director of the agency, Mr Abba Abubakar Aliyu, highlighted that solar’s contribution to the national generation has already seen a dramatic rise, currently sitting at approximately 20 per cent. This growth in national generation is attributed to the acceleration of private-sector partnerships and sustained deployment efforts across the country. During an energy panel titled Re-Engineering Africa’s Power Market – Driving Reliable Energy Systems, Mr Aliyu noted that if the current momentum and private-sector partnerships are maintained, the nation could reach the halfway mark in its electricity supply mix within the next three years.

Expansion of Local Manufacturing and Regional Supply

The expansion of the sector is not limited to power production alone, as Nigeria transitions from being a consumer to a regional provider of renewable technology. Mr Aliyu informed delegates that manufacturing companies within the Lagos–Sagamu industrial corridor are actively scaling up to meet the growing demand across the West African region. This industrial corridor is already seeing the export of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels to neighboring nations, supported by a development pipeline of 3.7 gigawatts in PV manufacturing capacity. The emergence of these manufacturing companies signifies a broader industrial shift, as the agency chief pointed out: “If you go to the Lagos–Sagamu axis, you will see manufacturing companies coming up.”

Grid Stability and Dual-Track Investment Strategies

Despite the rapid advancements in Nigeria solar power goals, the managing director clarified that the transition would not immediately replace existing infrastructure. He emphasized that conventional gas-fired thermal plants remain necessary for maintaining the stability of the national electricity grid. Consequently, he and other industry experts advocated for a dual-track investment strategy. This approach focuses on the continued expansion of solar energy systems while simultaneously upgrading and maintaining gas-fired facilities to ensure a reliable power supply. By integrating these diverse energy systems, Nigeria aims to balance its renewable technology ambitions with the practical requirements of grid reliability and domestic industrial growth.

Technical Specifications and Environmental Impact

The facility features roughly 22,000 solar panels secured to 400 engineered platforms. These systems are designed to remain stable despite water level fluctuations of up to 44 meters and depths reaching 79 meters. Beyond electricity generation, the installation serves a critical role in water conservation by reducing surface evaporation by an estimated 30 percent. This is vital for the reservoir, which typically loses between 3,000 and 7,000 cubic meters of water daily. The project effectively demonstrates how renewable energy can address both power needs and resource scarcity through innovative engineering and strategic placement.

With the completion of this project, Morocco has more than doubled the total operational floating solar capacity in Africa, which previously stood at 6.22 MWp. This development aligns with the national target to derive 52 percent of installed electricity capacity from renewable energy sources by 2030. While Africa currently has a development pipeline of 2.3 GWp for similar projects, research indicates a theoretical potential of 100 GW across the continent’s artificial reservoirs. The Oued Rmel floating solar plant serves as a model for future clean power initiatives, emphasizing resource management and long-term sustainability. This expansion of infrastructure and capacity highlights the continent’s commitment to sustainability through advanced photovoltaic technology.

Regulatory Compliance and Project Specifications

According to the regulator, these four initiatives represent a combined installed renewable energy capacity exceeding 1GW, which is expected to provide 890MW of contracted generation capacity to the national electricity system. NERSA confirmed that the application process began in January, followed by a formal public consultation period. Although a public hearing was originally slated for May, it was ultimately cancelled because no formal objections or registrations were submitted by the public or stakeholders. Consequently, NERSA determined that all four projects successfully satisfied the necessary technical, financial, economic, legal, and regulatory requirements. These latest solar PV licenses contribute to a growing pipeline of projects within the REIPPPP Bid Window 7, which has seen expansion through various allocations since the initial preferred bidders were named in late 2024.

Strategic Impact on National Energy Goals

With these recent approvals, the seventh bidding round has now secured nearly 5GW of solar capacity. The REIPPPP was established in 2011 as a strategic framework to draw private investment into the South African renewable energy sector and facilitate the growth of new generation capacity. This initiative is designed to mitigate the country’s persistent power supply issues, such as grid constraints and load shedding, which stem from a lack of sufficient electricity production. Data from the Global Solar Council indicates that the total solar PV capacity in South Africa reached approximately 6.3GW after the addition of 1.6GW in 2025. Currently, distributed and commercial & industrial (C&I) solar installations represent more than 59% of the total installed capacity. The nation maintains a long-term goal of reaching 20GW of solar PV capacity by the year 2030. The regulator noted that the absence of objections during the public consultation allowed for a streamlined approval process for the preferred bidders as they work to address ongoing grid constraints.

As part of the engagement, Honeywell Performance+ Services will be implemented using the Honeywell Forge platform, enabling real-time performance tracking and predictive insights. The integration of these digital systems with expertise from Honeywell UOP engineers will allow operators to identify inefficiencies and take corrective action promptly. “As global energy demand grows, refineries must operate with greater agility, reliability and efficiency,” said Ken West, president and CEO of Honeywell Process Technology. “Honeywell’s Connected Solutions pair advanced automation and digital capabilities with more than a century of deep refining expertise to help customers like Dangote improve operational performance, enhance asset reliability and unlock greater value from their facilities.” This deployment underlines the strategic importance of Dangote refinery upgrade efforts in achieving consistent throughput improvements.

In parallel, Honeywell will roll out simulation-based training programs built on digital twins of the refinery. These Operator Training Simulators will allow personnel to engage in real-world operational scenarios within a controlled environment, strengthening decision-making and safety practices. The training component is intended to enhance workforce capability while supporting long-term operational excellence. “The Dangote Petroleum Refinery is designed to set a new global benchmark for scale, efficiency and output,” said Aliko Dangote, President, Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals FZE. “Honeywell’s Performance+ Services and training programs support our ability to maximize output and achieve operational excellence by developing local talent to run operations safely and reliably as we ramp up production to meet the world’s growing energy needs.”

The refinery currently produces Euro-V quality gasoline, diesel, jet fuel and polypropylene, supporting both domestic supply and export potential. Employing more than 3,000 Nigerian workers, the facility is structured to meet the country’s full demand for refined petroleum products. Building on an ongoing partnership spanning nearly a decade, Honeywell’s refining technologies are expected to support a planned capacity expansion from 650,000 to 1.4 million barrels per day within three years. This capacity scale-up reinforces the broader Dangote refinery upgrade strategy aimed at optimizing assets and accelerating fuel delivery to market.

The African Energy Chamber (AEC), representing industry stakeholders, welcomed the development, emphasizing the importance of stronger intergovernmental and institutional linkages. Increased coordination between Petrosen and NNPC is expected to facilitate knowledge transfer, enhance institutional frameworks and accelerate project execution across upstream, refining and gas commercialization segments. Senegal Nigeria energy ties also aligns with ongoing efforts to operationalize the Africa Energy Bank, with Senegal already contributing capital and positioning itself within the financing structure for future energy projects.

“This is exactly the kind of collaboration Africa needs. When countries like Senegal and Nigeria work together – sharing knowledge, building infrastructure, strengthening NOCs and improving policies – we create an environment where investment can thrive and where Africa can take control of its energy future. Strong partnerships between African nations will be the foundation of energy security, industrialization and economic growth across the continent,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, AEC.

Momentum around Senegal Nigeria energy ties comes as both countries scale their oil and gas ambitions. Senegal continues to build on recent production milestones, including operations at the Sangomar oilfield and the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) LNG project. Output at Sangomar has stabilized at approximately 100,000 bpd, while GTA has recorded 24 LNG cargo exports between February 2025 and February 2026, alongside 1.6 million barrels of condensate marketed internationally. The country is also advancing the Yakaar-Teranga offshore project and pursuing a $100 million onshore exploration campaign aimed at unlocking new reserves through seismic acquisition and exploratory drilling.

Nigeria, Africa’s largest oil producer, is simultaneously targeting production levels of around 2 million bpd while expanding its refining and gas sectors. A 2025 licensing round offering 50 frontier and one deepwater block is expected to attract $10 billion in investment, complemented by renewed engagement with international oil companies including Chevron, ExxonMobil and Shell. The NNPC is targeting $30 billion in upstream investments by 2030.

On the downstream side, plans are underway to expand the Dangote Refinery’s capacity to 1.4 million bpd, while recent gas flare commercialization initiatives are set to unlock $2 billion in investments. The growing alignment between Senegal and Nigeria reflects a wider continental shift toward cooperative frameworks aimed at strengthening energy security, infrastructure development and long-term market integration.

According to the solar tender announcement, independent power producers interested in participating in the project have until October 14 to submit their offers. Once completed, the project will represent the country’s first solar-plus-storage installation of this scale, combining photovoltaic generation with large-capacity battery storage to support grid stability and renewable power integration.

Tunisia has already seen progress in the development of large solar installations. In December, Dubai-headquartered developer Amea Power commissioned a 120 MW solar project in Tunisia, the country’s largest to date. Dubai-headquartered developer Amea Power has commissioned a 120 MW solar project in Tunisia, the country’s largest to date.

Industry data highlights the steady expansion of solar generation across the country. The Africa Solar Industry Association’s (AFSIA) project database states Tunisia has 728.8 MW of operational solar capacity. With Amea Power’s plant now online, the country will be moving closer towards the 1 GW benchmark. Earlier in the year, the Tunisian government also approved additional renewable projects, granting licenses in March for four new utility-scale developments with a combined capacity of 500 MW. These projects were selected as part of a broader 1.7 GW renewable energy tender designed to expand Tunisia’s renewable power portfolio.

Libya is on the precipice of accelerated growth, backed by rising investor confidence, new licensing opportunities and strengthening global ties

Libya is entering a new phase of energy development, defined by renewed investor confidence, stronger international partnerships and a clear focus on moving projects from ambition to execution. This momentum was on full display at the 2026 edition of the Libya Energy & Economic Summit (LEES), where high-level engagements with the United States, France, Italy and the United Kingdom underscored growing global appetite to invest in and partner with Libya across upstream, gas and power priorities. Through a series of targeted roundtable discussions, LEES 2026 delivered a clear message to international investors: Libya is open for business.

U.S.–Libya: Strategic Priority and Expanding Commercial Footprint

Libya was described as a “high priority” for the current U.S. administration during the U.S.–Libya Roundtable, with officials pointing to rising American investment, a growing presence of U.S. energy companies and the strategic importance of Libya’s upstream revival. Convened by the American Chamber of Commerce, the session highlighted opportunities linked to Libya’s ongoing licensing round and the National Oil Corporation’s multi-billion-dollar development program, with U.S. operators and service providers signaling continued commitment to production growth, technology deployment and workforce development.

France–Libya: Project Momentum and Institutional Cooperation

The France–Libya Roundtable, sponsored by Business France, highlighted both project-level progress and deeper institutional alignment. TotalEnergies confirmed it is targeting end-2026 final investment decisions for the North Gialo 6J oil development and the 500 MW Sadada solar project, reinforcing France’s dual focus on hydrocarbons and renewables in Libya. In parallel, the Libyan Council for Oil, Gas and Renewable Energy and Business France signed a memorandum of understanding to strengthen collaboration between French and Libyan companies, with a potential joint venture under consideration to support energy investment and project development.

Italy–Libya: From Hydrocarbons to Power Generation

Long-standing Italy-Libya energy ties were reinforced during the Italy-Libya Roundtable, where participants called for expanded cooperation across oil, gas and power generation. Italy was positioned as a natural partner for Libya’s next phase of growth, combining operating experience, engineering capacity and geographic proximity. Discussions highlighted ongoing gas developments, flaring-reduction initiatives and growing interest in electricity generation and infrastructure rehabilitation.

U.K.–Libya: Second Licensing Round Anchors Upstream Strategy

The U.K.–Libya Roundtable, convened by the Libya British Business Council, centered on Libya’s plans to launch a second upstream licensing round, positioning licensing continuity as a cornerstone of the country’s strategy to sustain production and attract long-term investment. Libya’s Minister of Oil and Gas, Dr. Khalifa Abdulsadek, said strong global interest in the current licensing round – launched in 2025, with results expected shortly – has reinforced confidence in maintaining a regular, structured approach to acreage offerings. He also highlighted parallel initiatives targeting marginal fields, unconventional resources and underexplored acreage.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

SOURCE
Energy Capital & Power

The 25-year agreement includes the delivery of a fully integrated solar-plus-storage facility expected to generate around 6 TWh of electricity annually, along with two additional standalone battery energy storage projects. Once completed, the combined development will represent the largest solar and battery installation in Africa and Scatec’s single largest investment to date.

Scatec will serve as lead developer for the project, taking responsibility for engineering, procurement and construction, as well as asset management and operations and maintenance services.

The company said it plans to bring in additional equity partners and will disclose capital expenditure estimates and financing details once the project reaches financial close, which is expected in the second half of the year.

“By integrating advanced solar and battery technologies, we are providing Egypt with sustainable, around-the-clock power and grid stabilising services, supporting both the country’s energy transition and the region’s long-term economic development,” commented Scatec CEO Terje Pilskog.

Scatec’s investment portfolio in Egypt was valued at $3.6 billion as of last September. Its local project pipeline includes the 1.1 GW Obelisk solar plant combined with 200 MWh of battery storage, which began construction last May, and a separate 1 GW solar project with 200 MWh of battery capacity for Egypt Aluminium Company following a PPA signed last March.

The company’s broader Egyptian portfolio also includes the country’s first green hydrogen and ammonia production facility in the Suez Canal Economic Zone, a 900 MW wind farm, and an additional green ammonia project. The Scatec Egypt solar-plus-storage PPA further strengthens the company’s position in the country’s renewable energy sector.

Egypt’s operational solar capacity currently totals about 3.3 GW, according to data from the Africa Solar Industry Association, with roughly 1.8 GW concentrated at the Benban solar complex.

All the solar cells that are going to be produced will be exported, whereas the modules as well as storage systems are going to serve local along with regional markets.

It is anticipated to create almost 850 direct jobs and also support the push by Egypt to go ahead and localize green energy manufacturing and also boost exports.

In a recent move, an international consortium, which includes the likes of JA Solar from China, has broken ground when it comes to a multi-GW solar energy manufacturing complex based in the Suez Canal Economic Zone – SCZone of Egypt.  The $210 million Atum Solar Complex is going to host 3 facilities having annual capacities of 2 GW of solar cells, 2 GW in terms of solar panels, and also 1 GWh for energy storage systems – ESS.

While solar panels along with ESS are going to cater to both domestic and regional markets, with the overall solar cell output to be exported since Egypt makes use of its strategic location as well as free trade agreements – FTA in order to access the global markets.  The complex is anticipated to create 850 direct jobs.

Based in the Sokhna region, the solar complex is a partnership between JA Solar and AH Industrial Management from Egypt.

Global South Utilities – GSU from the UAE and Infinity Capital from Bahrain.  It is going to come up on a 200,000 sq. mt. space in the Sokhna Industrial Zone.  A land usufruct contract for the complex has been signed in August 2025, as the consortium went on to agree to source the Egyptian aluminum as well as glass.

Egypt’s Deputy Prime Minister for Industrial Development and Minister of Industry and Transport, Kamel Al-Wazir, who was attending the groundbreaking ceremony, stressed the commitment by Egypt to go ahead and localize green energy industries as per its vision to replace the imports with high-quality local products and also open certain new export markets.

Notably, JA Solar went on to unveil its 2 GW solar cell and 2 GW module production plans in Egypt along with Global South Utilities in November 2024.

Since then, there have been many solar PV manufacturing announcements that have been made when it comes to the Egyptian market, such as the solar glass factories that would be established by Kibing Solar as well as CSH Holding.

The Nigerian Gas Flare Commercialisation Programme – NGFCP marks quite a prominent step towards ending flaring as well as monetizing wasted gas, the officials from NGFCP confirmed on December 12, 2025.

Gas flaring apparently is the controlled burning of natural gas, which gets released at the time of oil extraction.

The gas flaring projects could very well capture between 250 and 300 million standard cubic feet per day – mmscfd of gas, which is currently flared, and slash around 6 million tonnes of CO₂ per year, and also unlock almost 3 gigawatts of power generation potential, showed an NGFCP document.

Nigeria anticipates the initiative to attract around $2 billion in terms of investment and also come up with over 100,000 jobs. It could also go on to produce 170,000 metric tons of LPG per year, hence offering clean cooking access across 1.4 million households.

The permits of the gas flaring projects go on to follow a competitive bid round, which went on to award 49 flare sites to 42 bidders post the programme got restructured after COVID-19 as well as the Petroleum Industry Act.

The head of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, Gbenga Komolafe, attended and also presented the certificates to all 28 companies.

As per the NGFCP official, the NGFCP is indeed a pillar in their quest to eradicate routine flaring, decrease emissions, and also elevate the global credibility of Nigeria when it comes to its energy transition commitments.

Notably, the programme sync well with the Energy Transition Plan of Nigeria and also looks to turn flare gas from being an environmental liability to an economic asset.

The 28 companies that have gone on to ink key agreements pertaining to milestone development and connection, as well as gas sales agreements, and now qualify for the permits so as to access flare gas.

Producers are also going to benefit from the decreased liabilities, enhanced ESG performance, and also alignment with the decarbonization agenda of the government.

Development partners, which are the likes of KPMG, Power Africa, the Global Gas Flaring Reduction initiative by the World Bank, and USAID, as well as financiers, have all supported the programme with technical along with commercial frameworks.

According to the official, while the permits indeed go on to mark a milestone, engineering, construction, and financing have to begin in earnest.

The official further said that the real work begins now, as this programme is going to create economic and industrial as well as environmental value while at the same time also strengthening the energy transition of Nigeria.