In over 30 years of its existence, the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) has championed technology as the foundation of national growth. Specifically in response to Nigeria’s critical energy matters, the Agency today is leading the charge with technology and innovative solar solutions—advancing access to clean, affordable power while driving economic, agricultural, and industrial transformations.
It is noteworthy to affirm that initiatives aimed at alleviating poverty and enhancing security across Nigeria occupy premium position in the heart of the Khalil Suleiman Halilu’s led Management of NASENI, being the foremost technology development institution of Federal Government, established under direct supervision of any sitting President of the country.
Today, as Nigeria grapples with the challenge of ensuring steady and reliable electricity supply as precursor to genuine industrialization, NASENI has continued to roll out various innovative solutions to support attempts to come out of the woods. Moreso, the matter is treated always as an urgent issue critical to the country’s industrial development by the management of the Agency.
Overtime, under its Alternative Power Solutions for Industrial Development Programme (APSIDP), NASENI is playing a crucial role in tackling Nigeria’s current energy deficit by championing development and deployment of various solar energy solutions. Through focusing on local manufacturing and innovative applications, NASENI is not only providing sustainable and affordable alternatives, but also contributing to broader national goals like food security and economic growth.
As of March 4, 2025, available statistics showed that the highest electricity power made available for distribution across our country was in the region of 5.801.84 mw. This significantly is a far cry from 40,000 mw need either to meet or sustain both the basic household and industrial electricity requirements for Nigeria.
NASENI has continued to dedicate itself to rigorous research and development (R&D) and commercialization efforts, coming up with SMART power-generating innovative solutions that are already making considerable impacts on the energy market. Its pioneering products are a culmination of decades of collaborative efforts between NASENI, its 12 divisions spread across the country and other private sector partners.
Since 2011, the Agency established the NASENI Solar Energy Limited (NSEL) located in Karshi, FCT, Abuja, producing different sizes of high quality solar photovoltaic panels. Amongst other impressive offers, aside from solar photovoltaic (PV) modules, are NASENI 1KVA Hybrid Solar Generator, a range of energy products known as BOSGEN; the NASENI E-Tricycle designed for passenger and cargo use, the innovative NASENI 5W bulbs, the efficient NASENI Solar Irrigation Pumps, and the versatile NASENI IP66 200W Solar Light.
NASENI’s NSEL is the first company in West Africa to produce solar photovoltaic (PV) modules and has since gone through extensive research to design and produce solar modules in various categories and sizes. The factory recently was upgraded to 50 megawatts capacity (with plans to expand to 100 megawatts) and also equipped with the requisite machineries, man-power and technical-know-how, producing high quality mono-crystalline solar panels which have comparatively out-performs many other imported ones.
Now looking ahead, the sustainability of Nigeria’s economic growth is intricately entwined with long-term availability of energy sources that are not only affordable or accessible but also environmentally sustainable. This energy mix includes solar energy where NASENI now plays lead role in the country.
NASENI solar solutions are Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON) certified, with Mandatory Conformity Assessment Programme (MANCAP) certification. NSEL’s solar panels range includes 80W, 175W, 180W, 190W, 200W, 250W, 275W, 350W and 690W. The production section has the capacity to design and produce modules tailored to specific needs.
Other products from NSEL include Plug and Play Solar Home Solutions, a hybrid system with 1.5KVA electric power output rated capacity, designed and patented to generate clean electricity for homes; and Hybrid Solar Power Trainer which simulates a typical grid-tied solar PV household electrical wiring connection for trainees to have adequate knowledge.
Others are Solar-Powered Event Generator, designed and patented to provide power supply for occasions like marriage, naming ceremony or any other such social function that requires stable power supply; and NSEL Solar Control System designed to generate electricity that can power small scale electrical appliances such as lighting point, mobile phone, Laptop, etc.
NSEL’s prowess transcends solar module production. The company carries out services like load auditing, systems sizing and design, PV module installations and maintenance, renewable energy services research and consultancy. The installation experience and capacity of the company’s pool of well-trained staff is premium; their works have been felt across Nigeria’s landscape, with presence in all its geopolitical zones.
The NASENI 1KVA Hybrid Solar Generator stands out due to its ability to provide a dependable power source for both homes and businesses particularly during power outages. This advanced solar energy solution is equipped with two 250W solar panels and a 100AH battery, ensuring reliable power supply. It features sophisticated circuitries that protect against overload, overcharging, and deep discharge, as well as an MPPT-type charge controller and a digital display for real-time operation monitoring. Additionally, it comes with an external battery port that allows for scalability. The advantages of this generator are profound and diverse, tailored to function effectively in the challenging weather conditions of the Western Sub-Saharan and Central African sub-regions.
As complement to the initiative, NASENI has introduced energy-efficient products like the 5W LED bulbs. These bulbs provide exceptional illumination while consuming significantly less energy than conventional brands, delivering dual benefits of reducing electricity costs for families or businesses and being environmentally friendly.
In line with its mission to enhance energy access across Nigeria, NASENI has unveiled innovative Solar Lighting System, particularly crucial for small businesses and communities that may have limited energy requirements or lack reliable access to the national electricity grid. In addition, it features a charging port compatible with mobile phones, hair clippers, rechargeable fans, and similar devices. This versatile system offers dual charging options, whereby users can charge the system either through the solar panel or by connecting to electrical grid. Once fully charged, this power solution can provide reliable lighting for an impressive duration of 48 to 72 hours, delivering excellent illumination for various needs.
NASENI’s BOSGEN (Battery Operated Solar Generator) system functions as a vital link between renewable energy generation and dependable power distribution. The BOSGEN range encompasses a variety of renewable energy solutions with capacities which extend from 480 watts to a robust 15 kilovolt-amperes (kVA). This wide array ensures comprehensive coverage for various use cases, catering to different energy demands.
In addition to the innovations, NASENI has introduced specialized products like the NASENI Torch Light, which directly responds to the specific needs of night farmers. These sustainable lighting solutions empower farmers to extend their working hours, thereby increasing productivity and enhancing safety during night-time agricultural operations.
Also, NASENI’s IP66-rated 200W Solar Light provides dependable illumination for outdoor spaces, designed to withstand harsh weather conditions. This feature is crucial for urban areas requiring increased security and for rural regions where access to electricity is still limited. A key component of NASENI’s strategy is its commitment to localizing the production of solar technology. The Agency is building the largest Renewable Energy Park in Gora, Nasarawa State where solar energy components and products will be produced.
In the realm of agriculture, the NASENI Solar Irrigation Pump has emerged as a ground-breaking solution. By utilising solar energy for irrigation purposes, farmers are positioned to significantly increase crop yields as they increase farming rounds yearly because they do not have to rely on rain-fed irrigation anymore. This innovation not only promotes food security but also offers a sustainable farming approach in the face of changing climatic conditions.
Recently, the NASENI Solar Irrigation Pump received endorsement for a nationwide distribution by the National Economic Council (NEC), Nigeria, a Council chaired by the country’s Vice president, Senator Kashim Shettima. The pumps are a game-changer for Nigerian farmers, who have long depended on expensive and polluting petrol-powered systems. Through providing cheaper, cleaner, and more reliable alternative, NASENI’s solar pumps are helping to boost agricultural productivity.
Farmers now can irrigate their crops consistently, enabling all year-round cultivation and increasing yields. By reducing operational costs, NASENI’s solar pumps eliminate fuel costs, thus frees up resources for farmers to invest in other areas like seeds and fertilizers and to enhance food security. The ability to farm during dry season helps stabilize food production, which can lead to more consistent harvests and lower food prices.
Beyond agriculture, NASENI’s solar initiatives are set to have a far-reaching impact on Nigeria’s economy and environment. By promoting the use of solar energy, the Agency is helping to create green jobs. The development or use of solar technology is creating employment opportunities for Nigeria’s youth.
While also unlocking carbon credits, farmers and other users of NASENI’s solar technologies can become eligible for carbon credit programmes, providing additional stream of income and promoting a cleaner environment. Shifting from fossil fuels to solar power helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution, thereby aligning with Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan.
So far NASENI’s efforts have demonstrated a strategic approach to addressing Nigeria’s energy challenges by leveraging local innovation, technology transfer, and sustainable solutions. By focusing on practical applications like solar irrigation and localized solar energy products manufacturing, the Agency is helping to build a more resilient and self-sufficient energy sector not only to support the industrialization ambition of the government, but also keep the private sector striving.
~ Ayeoyenikan is Director, Information, New Media and Protocol, NASENI, Abuja.
