British International Investment funds Okra Solar to expand solar access in Nigeria, potentially powering 750,000 people with decentralized renewable solutions.
Funding for solar energy in Nigeria
British International Investment (BII) has allocated 7 million USD to Okra Solar to support the procurement of equipment intended for approximately 150,000 new connections, which could serve 750,000 people. This funding allows the supplier of solar mesh-grid networks to order in bulk before concluding contracts with developers.Nigeria's energy challenges
In Nigeria, where approximately 87 million people remain without access to electricity, decentralized renewable solutions allow communities to be powered without waiting for the expansion of the national grid or relying on expensive and polluting diesel generators.Efficiency in equipment delivery
Okra Solar's general director, Afnan Hannan, explained that the company previously ordered equipment in batches of a few thousand units after concluding agreements. The new financing allows purchasing in advance and in bulk to have stock ready when an agreement is concluded. "The equipment arrives in Nigeria in less than a third of the time previously required, which allows lights to be turned on more quickly," he states.Solar mesh-grid technology
Okra provides a solar mesh-grid technology, called mesh-grids, which combines solar production, batteries, and intelligent devices that allow neighboring homes and businesses to share electricity. BII presents this solution as complementary to individual kits and classic mini-grids, particularly in small dispersed communities.Growth of off-grid solar in Nigeria
According to the "2025 Investment Data Report" by GOGLA, published with the support of ESMAP, the World Bank trust fund, Nigeria has captured 114 million USD out of the 315 million recorded globally in off-grid solar companies in 2025.Energy developments in other regions
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