What happens when consumers, innovators, and policymakers meet to discuss Nigeria’s energy future? 

Change begins to take shape.

In April, CADEF hosted a dynamic Distributed Energy Resources (DER) Stakeholders Workshop themed “Overcoming Barriers to a Sustainable Energy Transition” as part of our commitment to improving access to inclusive, sustainable energy solutions through the Renew Energy Naija one-stop shop. This gathering brought together key players from across the energy ecosystem—regulators, developers, vendors, energy enthusiasts, financial institutions, and media professionals—all aligned by a shared purpose: to make clean, affordable energy a reality for more Nigerians.

Conversations at the workshop explored how the DER platform can bridge the information and access gap for everyday consumers. From solar financing options to vendor transparency, and policy alignment, participants unpacked the practical steps needed to fast-track renewable energy adoption.

Highlights of the day included:

• A panel discussion on “Public-Private Partnerships & International Collaborations Driving Renewable Energy Adoption in Nigeria.” 

Panelists underscored the importance of aligning government policy, private innovation, and international support to create an enabling environment for consumers. The discussion was both pragmatic and visionary—paving the way for stronger, more strategic collaboration across the energy space. 

Among the distinguished attendees was CADEF’s Executive Director, Prof. Chiso Ndukwe-Okafor, who reiterated the organization’s commitment to driving equitable access to distributed energy solutions. 

She was joined by Adetola Adegbayi, Founder of Mutual Specialists, who advocated for more innovative approaches to financing and protecting solar projects. “To make clean energy financing more viable,” she noted, “we need to shift from loans to equity-based funding, especially because most current solar projects are very micro. When solar panels are installed in homes, they can be insured just like any other property within the home. That way, even if the weather damages them, insurance can step in.”

Chinma George, Head of Renewable Energy at First City Monument Bank (FCMB), emphasized the importance of data-backed financial modelling in unlocking investment capital. “Financiers don’t fund what they don’t understand,” she said. “They look out for a clear history of cash flow and a solid projection of returns. We are digitizing renewable energy lending—from tracking collections to automating approvals—so that clean energy can scale at the speed Nigeria needs.” 

Also on the panel was Segun Adaju, renewable energy expert and former President of the Renewable Energy Association of Nigeria, who delivered a compelling economic perspective: “With the right policies, we can shift spending on inefficient systems into long-term energy solutions. There’s enough money already being spent on diesel and generators. We need to redirect that spend into clean energy systems that work.”

• A live tour of the Renew Energy Naija platform, where participants explored the interactive tools available. From the solar energy calculator to the directory of verified vendors, the tour showcased how digital solutions can demystify energy choices for households and businesses.

This initiative reinforces CADEF’s role as a connector—amplifying consumer voices, informing national discourse, and fostering collaborations that drive real impact.

As we move into the second half of 2025, we are more convinced than ever that an empowered consumer is the strongest driver of a just energy transition.