Sterling and Wilson Solar Solutions, Inc (SWSS), the US-based step-down subsidiary of Sterling and Wilson Renewable Energy Ltd (SWRE) announced that it has signed an MoU with the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, along with its consortium partner Sun Africa.
The MoU is for the development, design, construction, and commissioning of solar PV power plants aggregating 961 MWp at five different locations in Nigeria along with battery energy storage systems (BESS) with total installed capacity of 455 MWh.
These projects will ultimately be owned and operated by Niger Delta Power Holding Company, a Nigerian Government owned entity. Financing for these projects are under negotiations between US EXIM, ING and the Government of Nigeria.
According to Amit Jain, Global CEO, Sterling and Wilson Renewable Energy Group, “Africa has shown great progress in the development of its solar energy markets over the last few years. SWRE, having contributed the maximum solar capacity in Africa with a portfolio of over 1 GWp, stands tall as a renewable player in this region.”
Electrification in Nigeria
Nigeria’s electrification rate is above the sub-Saharan Africa regional average of 47 per cent, however, it lags behind the global average. This makes for a strong case for solar energy as a viable solution for domestic and commercial supply. The Nigerian Government is continuing to work with the private sector to improve access to energy, create jobs and develop the overall industry.
Also read: Sterling And Wilson Emerges L1 For Mega NTPC Solar Contract
Sterling and Wilson in Africa
SWRE, part of the Sterling and Wilson Group, entered the African market in 2015 with its first international project of 90 MWp in De Aar, South Africa. Today, the company has a portfolio of over 1 GWp spread across seven countries. Some of the other prestigious projects built in the region by the company include Benban Solar Park – the world’s largest planned solar installation in Egypt.
Featured photograph shows a solar power project built by Sterling and Wilson in Nigeria.
