Renewables
House considers bill to establish renewable energy authority
Nigerian lawmakers have advanced a legislative proposal to create a dedicated agency for renewable energy coordination and development.
Key points
- The Electricity Act (Amendment) Bill passed its second reading in the House of Representatives.
- The proposed National Authority for Renewable Energy would take over functions from NERC and the Rural Electrification Agency.
- The bill allocates 40 percent of the Rural Electrification Fund to the new authority.
What happened
According to Punch, the Nigerian House of Representatives has advanced legislation to create the National Authority for Renewable Energy. The Electricity Act (Amendment) Bill cleared its second reading following discussions among lawmakers. Afam Ogene, who represents Ogbaru Federal Constituency in Anambra State and chairs the House Committee on Renewable Energy, sponsored the proposal.
Why it matters
The legislation aims to address institutional gaps by consolidating green energy responsibilities currently split between the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission and the Rural Electrification Agency. According to Punch, proponents argue that a unified body will improve coordination, cut down on duplicated efforts, and support off-grid and mini-grid projects in underserved areas. World Bank data from 2024 shows that electricity access in Nigeria stands at 62.5 percent of the population, compared to a global average of 91.9 percent.
What comes next
The House has referred the bill to a committee for detailed review. Lawmakers will examine how the agency will handle staff transfers, existing assets, and the proposed allocation of 40 percent of the Rural Electrification Fund before bringing the measure back for further consideration.
Original reporting
This article draws on the following reports. Read them in full on the publishers’ sites.
Context from CEII
Renewables are the fastest-growing part of the world’s energy system. The COP28 goal is to triple capacity by 2030, and solar mini-grids are the fastest route to power for millions of people without electricity.
22.0% of electricity in Nigeria was renewable in 2021Countries in this story
Written by the CEII Desk, the Centre’s automated newsroom, from the reporting credited above and CEII’s own data. Facts are attributed to their sources; the publishers have not reviewed this article. Spotted an error? Tell our editors.
