In a decisive move to confront the chronic energy challenges stalling industrial productivity in Kano State, the European Union, in collaboration with the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, has launched two Energy Efficiency Networks.
The initiative, officially unveiled on Monday, aims to support the commercial nerve centre of Northern Nigeria by promoting energy-saving practices, enhancing access to power, and accelerating the state’s transition to cleaner energy sources.
Speaking at the launch, Inga Stefanowicz, Team Leader for Green and Digital Economy at the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, acknowledged Kano’s vast economic potential but lamented the persistent power shortages affecting manufacturers and businesses. “Energy deficits in Kano are a major hindrance to productivity,” she said. “Our focus is now shifting beyond renewables like solar to also explore hydropower and improve efficiency across the board.”
She emphasized that energy efficiency is just as vital as increasing capacity. “Reducing emissions and cutting costs for businesses is crucial. The Nigeria Energy Support Programme has been driving these improvements for years,” Stefanowicz noted.
Kano State Commissioner for Investment, Commerce, Industry and Cooperative, Shehu Sagagi, welcomed the development, describing it as timely. “Our SMEs are suffering from unreliable and overpriced energy. Kano needs about 1,000MW, but supply falls short. We are ready to work with partners like the EU to fix this,” he said.
The German Development Agency (GIZ), represented by Implementation Manager Joshua Yari, said the programme aligns with Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan, targeting doubled energy efficiency by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2060.
Business leaders also hailed the move. Director General of NACCIMA, Olusola Obadimu, called it “a developmental imperative,” stressing that poor energy infrastructure hinders MSMEs. His counterpart at MAN, Oluwasegun Ogundipe, added that efficient energy use is essential for industrial competitiveness and sustainable growth.
The energy networks are expected to create a platform for knowledge exchange, technical support, and collaboration among stakeholders to improve energy management, reduce costs, and boost industrial resilience in Kano.
