EU, Germany to boost Nigeria’s renewable energy with new funding initiative

The European Union (EU) and Germany have launched the Nigeria Country Window initiative to accelerate investments in renewable energy projects across the country, particularly in underserved rural areas.

Unveiled in Lagos, the initiative seeks to unlock financing for sustainable energy solutions tailored to Nigeria’s unique needs. It is being implemented by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) and will work closely with existing donor-funded programmes, including the Nigerian Energy Support Programme (NESP), which has been co-funded by the EU and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) since 2013.

Speaking at the launch, Team Leader for Green and Digital Economy at the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Inga Stefanowicz, reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to Nigeria’s energy transition. “Reliable electricity is essential for economic development, and unlocking finance for renewable energy solutions is a critical step toward bridging Nigeria’s energy access gap,” she said.

Representing the Federal Ministry of Power, Permanent Secretary Temitope Dina highlighted the initiative’s significance, stating, “With the right investments, policies, and technologies, we can create a cleaner, greener, and more resilient energy system. This transformation is a necessity for ensuring energy access for all Nigerians and reducing dependence on fossil fuels.”

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, urged investors to seize the opportunity, describing GET.invest Nigeria as a strategic initiative with high returns. “This is our answer to some of the country’s challenges and reflects our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and resilience,” he added.

Germany’s Consul General in Lagos, Weert Börner, and reiterated Germany’s dedication to Nigeria’s clean energy ecosystem. “By supporting private sector investment in renewable energy, we aim to strengthen Nigeria’s clean energy landscape and drive long-term economic growth,” he noted.

GET.invest Nigeria Coordinator, Lawrence Efanga Edeke, described the initiative as a crucial step in scaling up renewable energy investments. “By working closely with project developers, financiers, and policymakers, we aim to mobilise the level of investment required to meet Nigeria’s ambitious energy and climate commitments,” he said.

The initiative will provide market intelligence, industry mobilisation, and capacity development support to local stakeholders, equipping them with tools to expand clean energy solutions. It is expected to enhance energy security, spur economic growth, and improve the quality of life for millions of Nigerians.

GET.invest, backed by the EU, Germany, Norway, the Netherlands, Sweden, and Austria, has established similar country-specific programmes to foster sustainable energy development.