EU, Germany launch energy efficiency networks to boost power supply in Kano

The European Union (EU), in collaboration with Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), has launched two Energy Efficiency Networks (EENs) in Kano State, Nigeria.

This initiative aims to address persistent energy challenges in Northern Nigeria’s commercial and industrial hub, supporting economic growth and sustainable development.

At the official launch event, Inga Stefanowicz, Team Leader for Green and Digital Economy at the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, emphasized that Kano, despite being a major hub for economic activity and manufacturing, suffers from significant energy deficits.

These energy shortfalls, she noted, limit the productivity and performance of businesses and manufacturers.

“We are working with the Kano State Government to address these challenges,” Stefanowicz said.

“The EU has been actively supporting Nigeria for years in tackling energy access and electrification gaps, which are essential for the country’s socioeconomic progress.”

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She further highlighted the EU’s focus on promoting renewable energy, including achievements in solar power deployment and plans to explore hydro power potential in Kano.

“Improving energy efficiency is as vital as increasing energy generation capacity,” she stressed. “It lowers operational costs for businesses, cuts greenhouse gas emissions, and helps preserve the environment.”

Kano State’s Commissioner for Investment, Commerce, Industry, and Cooperatives, Shehu Wada Sagagi, welcomed the initiative, stating it was timely and essential for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the state.

“Many SMEs are burdened by paying for energy they don’t consume. This initiative offers hope,” he said.

He also pointed to a shortage of skilled electricians in the state, noting that the few available charge high fees due to overwhelming demand.

“We hope this programme also includes training opportunities to build a pool of qualified technicians,” Sagagi added.

He stressed the urgency of improving access to electricity, revealing that Kano currently needs about 1,000MW, far more than it can supply. “Many companies are forced to generate their own power,” he noted.

He reaffirmed the state’s commitment to supporting the EU and German cooperation, recognizing energy reform as a key to reducing unemployment and building a skilled workforce.

Representing GIZ, the German development agency, Joshua Yari, Implementation Manager, noted that Germany has long understood the role of energy efficiency in driving industrial competitiveness.

He said the new EENs are aligned with Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan, which targets doubling improvements in energy efficiency by 2030 and achieving net-zero emissions by 2060.

Olusola Obadimu, Director General of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), described the launch as both timely and strategic.

He stressed that energy efficiency is a developmental necessity for improving industrial productivity, reducing costs, and fostering green economic growth.

“Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) face serious energy-related constraints, from high utility bills to unreliable power supply,” Obadimu said.

“This Energy Efficiency Network provides a platform for industries to collaborate, share best practices, and develop tailored energy management solutions.”

Segun Ajayi-Kadir, Director General of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), represented by Oluwasegun Ogundipe, praised the launch as a bold step toward creating a more resilient and energy-smart Nigeria.

He highlighted the role of the Nigeria Energy Support Programme (NESP) in enhancing manufacturing operations through skills development and cost-saving energy initiatives.

“Energy is fundamental to manufacturing competitiveness and sustainable economic growth,” Ajayi-Kadir noted.

The newly launched Energy Efficiency Networks are expected to serve as collaborative platforms for businesses to improve energy performance, reduce emissions, and boost productivity—marking a significant step forward in Kano’s energy transition journey.