Lagos Technicians Advocate for Solar Energy Transition

Generator and solar energy technicians in Lagos have called for a coordinated framework to support the transition from the traditional genset economy to the solar energy sector. This call was made during a Solar Technicians Town Hall at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, part of a four-month action research project led by researchers from ODI Global, African Cities Research Consortium, and De Montfort University, with support from the University of Lagos and the Federation of Informal Workers Organisations of Nigeria.

The forum gathered informal energy workers, solar technicians, and researchers to discuss the challenges and opportunities in Nigeria's energy landscape as it shifts towards renewable energy. Participants identified barriers such as fragmented training pathways, inadequate access to certification, and regulatory challenges that could hinder the transition.

The research team surveyed over 300 technicians to assess their backgrounds and training needs, aiming to generate evidence on how technicians can acquire solar skills and meet the demands of the evolving energy market.