Starsight Energy Africa Group, a leading provider of clean energy solutions for commercial and industrial (C&I) customers across Sub-Saharan Africa, has secured $15 million mezzanine debt funding from British International Investment (BII), the United Kingdom’s development finance institution and impact investor, in a move aimed at expanding renewable power solutions for businesses, particularly in Nigeria.

The investment will be deployed in Starsight’s existing West African operations to support growth, strengthen operations and scale energy solutions for commercial and industrial users, with Nigeria expected to receive most of the funding.

Industry stakeholders say the funding could help address the persistent electricity challenges facing Nigeria’s productive sector, where unreliable grid supply has forced many businesses to rely heavily on diesel and petrol generators for power.

The company said the financing would support a substantial pipeline of renewable solar energy projects while also ensuring that existing customers continue to receive best-in-class service, including asset replacement where necessary.

According to Starsight, the partnership aligns with BII’s strategic objective of supporting productive, sustainable and inclusive development in emerging markets while also accelerating the adoption of clean energy infrastructure across West Africa.

It has been estimated that up to 40 gigawatts (GW) of electricity in Nigeria is generated from diesel and petrol generators, highlighting the scale of the country’s off-grid power dependence.

Starsight said the latest funding round represents a major step toward replacing that reliance with cleaner, renewable energy solutions tailored for commercial and industrial users.

Group CEO at Starsight, Paul van Zijl, described the partnership as a significant milestone for the company’s growth ambitions in the region.

“Partnering with BII marks a significant milestone for the Starsight Energy Africa Group.

This funding strengthens our ability to scale more rapidly in Nigeria and Ghana, delivering reliable, clean energy solutions that support economic growth and improve energy resilience for our clients,” says Van Zijl.

He added that BII’s investment reflects strong confidence in the company’s role in expanding energy access in emerging markets.

“BII’s mission is to support sustainable socio-economic development in emerging markets.

Their decision to partner with us is an endorsement of the role we play in increasing energy access within these markets, delivering affordable, low-carbon solutions while simultaneously uplifting the communities in which we operate,” Van Zijl added.

For Nigeria’s business community, access to stable electricity has remained one of the most critical constraints to productivity and growth. Frequent outages from the national grid and rising diesel costs have significantly increased operating expenses for manufacturers, service providers and other commercial enterprises.

The expansion of distributed solar energy solutions, particularly for the commercial and industrial segment, is increasingly viewed as one of the most viable pathways to reduce energy costs, enhance reliability and support Nigeria’s transition to cleaner power sources.

Commenting on the investment, British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Jonny Baxter, said: “The UK remains committed to supporting Nigeria’s transition to clean, reliable, and affordable energy. This investment by BII reflects that commitment in action.

Expanding access to dependable renewable power for businesses across Nigeria will help unlock growth, strengthen energy resilience, and reduce dependence on costly and polluting diesel and petrol self-generation. It represents a practical step toward a greener, more sustainable future for both our countries.”

Also speaking on the development, West Africa Regional Director and Head of Office, Nigeria, at BII, Benson Adenuga, said the financing aligns with the institution’s mission of supporting clean and scalable energy platforms capable of addressing Africa’s electricity deficit.

“Nigeria’s businesses need dependable and affordable power to grow. We identified Starsight’s strong track record, combined with its clean energy model, as a strong fit with BII’s mandate. Starsight’s commercial and industrial solar solutions directly address this challenge by reducing dependence on refined petroleum products and improving reliability. By backing scalable distributed renewable platforms like Starsight, BII is supporting clean energy expansion in West Africa and demonstrating confidence in the region’s potential for sustainable, inclusive growth.”

Starsight said the financing will also help unlock new energy capacity across its operational markets, especially in countries where energy instability has historically constrained economic development.

Group Commercial Director at Starsight, Michael Chuchu, said the funding will further strengthen the company’s position in Nigeria and support the expansion of reliable power solutions for businesses.

“Nigeria remains our second-largest market and a core focus area for expansion. For our West African customers, this investment tangibly proves that Starsight is here to support their operations and provide energy certainty through environmentally responsible solutions.

“With BII’s support, we’re set to pursue the next chapter of our growth journey,” Chuchu added.