… as residential, commercial, industrial solar users explore export of excess power to national Grid

Oredola Adeola

With Nigeria’s solar panel imports rising to ₦125.29 billion in Q1 2025 and total installed capacity reaching 385.7MW, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has confirmed the development of draft regulations on photovoltaic systems net billing and is now seeking public input on a proposed net metering arrangement.

The Commission stated this in a public document obtained by Advisors Reports on Thursday.

According to a document by the Commission, the move responds to the expanding capacity and growing investments in solar deployment, and aims to establish a commercial framework that, once approved, will enable consumers and businesses to export excess power back to the national grid for commercial value.

NERC noted that in 2023, solar panel imports were valued at over $200 million—equivalent to more than four million panels—with a significant share directed towards captive power generation.

The Commission added that the surge continued into Q1 2025, when the value of imported solar panels climbed to about ₦125.29 billion.

NERC said, “This expansion reflects the increasing adoption of renewable energy, particularly in rural and off-grid areas, driven by government initiatives and private sector investments.

“In 2024, Nigeria added 63.5 MW of solar capacity, bringing the total installed capacity to 385.7 MW, further accelerating the shift towards decentralized energy solutions,” the document stated.

The Commission also revealed that based on the expansion, stakeholders have approached the Commission with requests to explore the possibility of implementing a net metering arrangement, enabling the export of excess power back into the grid for commercial value.

It stated that in compliance with its Business Rules and pursuant to Sections 46 and 48 of the Electricity Act (EA) 2023, which govern the Commission’s proceedings, consultations, and public hearings, it has developed draft regulations on net billing.

NERC emphasised that submissions from the general public on the draft net billing regulations can be made until 26 September 2025.