The renewable energy landscape in Nigeria received a significant boost with the successful hosting of the Decentralized Renewable Energy (DRE) Developer Forum by All On, in collaboration with the Rural Electrification Agency (REA).

The event drew over 300 professionals from across the country and beyond, underscoring the growing interest in off-grid energy solutions.

At the heart of the forum was the World Bank’s Distributed Access through Renewable Energy Scale-up (DARES) Project, a critical initiative aimed at expanding energy access to underserved communities. Industry leaders emphasized the importance of collaboration and strategic partnerships in driving the sector forward.

Caroline Eboumbou, CEO of All On, described the $750 million DARES programme as a critical step towards bridging the gap to energy access, noting that in providing developers with the necessary knowledge and partnerships, one was unlocking the potential for off-grid energy solutions to reach underserved communities.

“We’re proud to have convened such a dynamic group of developers and stakeholders who are committed to expanding clean energy access,” she said.

REA’s Managing Director/CEO, Abba Abubakar Aliyu, echoed similar sentiment, highlighting the agency’s commitment to fostering strategic engagements that propel the sector forward.

“This forum demonstrates what’s possible when we work together. We not only overcome the challenges that have hindered progress in the past, but also create a brighter energy future for Nigeria.”

For Olufemi Akinyelure, Head of Nigeria’s Electrification Programme, DARES represents the next phase in Nigeria’s energy access story, shifts power to the states, and opens doors for developers and underserved communities, thus making “a meaningful difference in the lives of Nigerians.”

As Nigeria pushes towards universal energy access, the DARES project is poised to play a pivotal role. With its focus on decentralized renewable energy solutions, the project has the potential to transform the energy landscape and empower communities. The forum served as a catalyst for knowledge-sharing, networking, and alignment between the public and private sectors, setting the stage for a brighter, more sustainable energy future.

All On is an independent impact investing company seeded by Shell, while REA is the implementing agency under the Federal Ministry of Power, tasked with the electrification of unserved and underserved communities