The Renewable Energy Forum Africa (REFA) 2026 is set to take place in Lagos on November 25-26, with Nigeria's growing solar market as a focal point. The event, organised by the Africa Solar Industry Association (AFSIA) and supported by SolarPower Europe, will bring together investors, developers, regulators, utilities, and policymakers. The forum aims to strengthen partnerships, attract investment, and support Nigeria's clean energy and local manufacturing ambitions.
The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) is backing the forum, which will feature a keynote address by REA Managing Director, Abba Abubakar Aliyu. The event will examine local manufacturing, particularly following the launch of Nigeria's first privately owned 100MW solar module assembly plant in Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos. B2B meetings, an exhibition, and the AFSIA Awards will also take place on November 25.
Nigeria is West Africa's leading solar market, with an operational capacity of approximately 618MWp, ranking first in the region and eighth in Africa, according to AFSIA. The country also leads the continent in mini-grid capacity with 132MWp, while its commercial and industrial (C&I) solar capacity stands at 385MWp. This makes Nigeria an attractive destination for investment in renewable energy.
The market is receiving fresh support through the $750m World Bank-backed Distributed Access through Renewable Energy Scale-up (DARES) programme. The programme aims to establish 1,350 mini-grids and provide electricity access for 17.5 million Nigerians. This initiative is expected to boost Nigeria's renewable energy sector and improve access to electricity.
The forum will provide a platform for stakeholders to discuss opportunities and challenges in Nigeria's renewable energy sector. With the country's growing demand for clean energy, the event is expected to attract significant attention from investors and developers. The AFSIA Awards will also recognise outstanding contributions to the sector.
The Renewable Energy Forum Africa is part of a broader effort to promote sustainable energy in Africa. By bringing together key stakeholders, the event aims to drive growth and investment in the sector. With Nigeria's solar market at the forefront, the forum is expected to have a significant impact on the country's energy landscape.
As the event approaches, stakeholders are eagerly anticipating the opportunities that will arise from the forum. With a strong lineup of speakers and attendees, the Renewable Energy Forum Africa is set to be a major milestone in Nigeria's journey towards a more sustainable energy future. The event will demonstrate Nigeria's commitment to renewable energy and its potential for growth in the sector.
Key points
- Nigeria's solar market is set to take centre stage at the Renewable Energy Forum Africa.
- The forum aims to strengthen partnerships and attract investment in Nigeria's clean energy sector.
- Nigeria leads West Africa in solar market and mini-grid capacity.
