In a landmark move poised to accelerate Nigeria’s transition to clean energy, Irish firm CDGA Consultants, through its subsidiary Cork Nigeria Solar Energy Company (CNSEC), has unveiled plans to establish a 200-megawatt solar panel manufacturing plant in the Lagos Free Zone.
But this is more than a factory — it’s a foundation for long-term energy independence, job creation, and technological transfer.
“We’re not just building panels — we’re building people, capacity, and a future-proof energy sector for Nigeria,” said Dan Moriarty, Managing Director of CNSEC.
A Bold Shift from Generators to Green Power
With Lagos residents and businesses burning through ₦1.4 trillion annually on generator fuel, the need for reliable, sustainable alternatives has never been greater.
“This is a $3 billion market waiting to be transformed,” Moriarty emphasized. “We’re stepping in to turn dependency into opportunity — with Nigerian-made solar solutions, installed by Nigerian-trained professionals.”
The company is also setting up a certified solar technician training programme, designed to equip locals with the skills needed to deploy and maintain solar infrastructure — fostering a homegrown workforce to support Nigeria’s clean energy future.
Strategic Engagement and Global Collaboration
Moriarty is currently in Nigeria for key meetings with government stakeholders including the Minister of Power, NERC, NIPC, and the Rural Electrification Agency, aimed at solidifying partnerships and aligning policy for faster rollout.
To jumpstart production, CNSEC is collaborating with Italian solar technology firm Eco Progetti, with plans to manufacture high-efficiency 700-watt Topcon solar modules — among the most advanced in the industry.
Training First, Then Scaling
In a strategic twist, the company will begin with training services — a fast, capital-light way to build momentum while the manufacturing infrastructure is being finalized.
“We believe development should start with people, not products,” Moriarty noted. “Too many foreign projects ship in equipment and leave no legacy. We’re doing the opposite — building local skills that last.”
Driving Local Certification and Global Standards
Another game-changing element of the project is CNSEC’s plan to establish an in-country testing and certification facility, ending the expensive practice of sending solar modules abroad for ISO compliance. This move will drastically cut costs and accelerate adoption across Nigeria and beyond.
“That alone can reshape the solar market across West Africa,” Moriarty said.
Inspired by Ireland’s Journey, Built for Nigeria’s Future
Reflecting on his home country’s transformation, Moriarty drew parallels with Nigeria’s current moment of opportunity.
“Ireland rose from poverty to prosperity through smart investment and entrepreneurship. Nigeria can do the same — and we’re here to be part of that journey, from the ground up.”
Although the project is still securing financing and assessing material supply chains, Moriarty remains confident that training programmes, local hiring, and site activities will begin soon.
This solar plant isn’t just about panels — it’s about powering a nation, training a generation, and proving that clean energy can be made in Nigeria, by Nigerians, for Nigerians.
