Difference between revisions of "Comply with Policies and Regulations"

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==Introduction==  
+
==Introduction==
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Supporting services can be defined as any additional support needed to address weaknesses or gaps in the delivery model, or socio-cultural factors that need to be considered for the service to work (in a given context). This section focuses on the employees and the communities. It will address potential challenges and opportunities of community engagement at the project side, give an overview of further training programs for your personnel, and give a short insight into community-based models.
+
Nigerian developers working on decentralized renewable electricity solutions for off-grid areas should consider several key aspects of regulations and policies to ensure compliance and the successful implementation of their projects. This page will give an overview of the regulatory landscape and list tools and resources that are of use specifically for developers.  
  
−
==Definitions==
+
==Fundamental remarks==
−
'''<u>Lack of interest and participation</u>'''
+
'''<u>Mini grids</u>'''
  
−
Community members may consider local or state government bodies as responsible for the provision of energy services or a culture of active participation has never been established. Some might even see participating in the project as a waste of time and resources. Language barriers, appropriation by the elite and local conflicts can also be causes for non-participation<ref name=":0">USAID (no date) How can developers engage communities? Available at: <nowiki>https://www.usaid.gov/energy/mini-grids/community/engagement</nowiki>.</ref>.
+
Over the last few years, mini-grids have played a key role in implementing Nigeria’s energy access and sustainable energy goals. They are now widely acknowledged as an integral component of the country’s energy ecosystem, delivering sustainable and reliable electricity access to nearly 27 thousand households living in areas that, until now, were out of reach of or unreliably served by the main grid infrastructure<ref>REAN (2022) Future-proofing the expanding market: Recommendations for improving the bankability of the mini-grid regulatory framework in Nigeria. Multi-stakeholder position paper. Available at: <nowiki>https://rean.org.ng/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/221220-NG-mini-grid-position-paper-1.pdf</nowiki> </ref>.  
  
−
'''<u>Gender inequality in participation</u>'''
+
In 2016, two significant developments took place in the Nigerian energy sector. First, the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) released the [https://rea.gov.ng/download/rural-electrification-strategy-implementation-plan-resip/ Rural Electrification Strategy and Implementation Plan (RESIP)], which acknowledged mini-grids’ role in closing the energy access gap and improving supply. In the same year, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) approved comprehensive mini-grid regulation, [https://rea.gov.ng/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/NERC-Mini-Grid-Regulation.pdf NERC Regulation for Mini-grids 2016], covering a broad set of issues, from mini-grid licensing to quality standards and tariff design. This regulation has been replaced in 2023 by the [https://nerc.gov.ng/index.php/library/documents/func-startdown/1195/ NERC Minigrid Regulations 2023]. Changes in the Regulations concern: (1) Provision enabling Mini-grid permits for interconnected mini-grid operators, (2) Introduction of portfolio of isolated and interconnected mini-grids, (3) Provision for a submission of individual and combined reports for each mini grid and portfolio of min-grids respectively, (4) Submission of reports on mini-grids at least once in a year, (5) Stringent system for finding discrepancies in inspection of accounts for adjustment of tariffs, (6) Provision of 12-month notification period to isolated mini-grid permit holder for Disco interconnection, (7) Improvement in compensation and transfer of asset process to the Disco during interconnection in return for compensation, (8) Filing of decommissioning plan by the Disco and the registered mini-grid operator, (9) Provision facilitating compensation to interconnected mini-grid operator where Disco reintegrates interconnected mini-grid into its network, (10) Provision to file either a single tariff application for all sites under a portfolio of isolated/interconnected mini-grids or individual application for each site under the two portfolios, (11) Reduction of allowable technical losses and non-technical losses cap for determining retail tariffs from 10% to 4% and 3% respectively <ref>Okediya, Peter (2024). The 2023 Mini-Grid Regulations: What’s New, Project Development Procedures and Permit Requirements.https://energybriefbyfortrose.substack.com/p/the-2023-mini-grid-regulations-whats</ref>.
  
−
The opportunities women and men have, varies from region to region. While in some areas women and men are equal, in other areas women have no decision-making rights. This is not only disadvantageous in terms of equality but also regarding the development of solutions. The input of women can help to strengthen the technical design of a project by providing other insights<ref name=":0" />.
 
  
−
==Guiding Principles==
+
Table 1: Summary of Key Policies Governing Off-grid Sector<ref>USAID (2021) PA-NPSP Off-Grid Market Intelligence Report. The Nigeria Power Sector Reform Program. </ref>
−
 
 
−
==== Provide training for your staff ====
 
−
A cornerstone for the successful establishment and maintenance of an off-grid solar (OGS) project is its personnel. During the construction of the plant, care should be taken to train them beforehand. Before entering a solar plant, the employee needs a hazard briefing including health and safety regulations. The operation and maintenance (O&M) of the facility should be carried out by trained staff who meet the relevant qualifications to work safe, accountable and responsible. Especially in rural, emerging markets this can be challenging as qualified personnel is not always available. Therefore developers should consider offering their employee standard training which is provided by public training institutes and international organisations as well as further education opportunities for instance in the form of certifications/ diplomas. A selection of training institutions in the OGS sector can be found in Table 1. The industry is changing fast, and so is the technology. Therefore a developer should create a continuous internal and external training scheme, including opportunities for qualification and development<ref name=":1">Solar Power Europe (2021) Operation and Maintenance Best Practice Guidelines / Africa edition. Available at: <nowiki>https://api.solarpowereurope.org/uploads/Africa_edition_O_and_M_Best_Practice_Guidelines_fdea430b58.pdf</nowiki>.</ref>.
 
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
{| class="wikitable"
−
|+Table 1: List of training institutions and materials (own extended illustration based on USAID, 2022<ref>USAID & Power Africa. (2022). PA NPSP Off-Grid Market Intelligence Report. <nowiki>https://pdf.usaid.gov/pdf_docs/PA00ZB5X.pdf</nowiki></ref>)
+
!Policy
−
!Name
+
!Agency
−
!Area of action
 
 
!Description
 
!Description
 
|-
 
|-
−
|[https://www.renac.de/projects/current-projects/nigerian-finance-training-programme Renewables Academy (RENAC)]
+
|[https://www.all-on.com/media/publications/simplified-guides-to-nigerias-energy-access-policies-and-regulations/_jcr_content/par/textimage.stream/1595010022370/2415fb964b5387e6cca3ea4546d4118e8c8ed77f/national-renewable-energy-and-energy-efficiency-policy-nreeep.pdf National Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Policy (NREEEP)]
−
|Worldwide, online
+
|Federal Ministry of Power
−
|RENAC is a provider for training and capacity building on renewable energy and energy efficiency based in Germany. Additionally to solar energy, they also offer courses on other renewable energy sources as well as on business development. The offer includes a variety of ready-made trainings for individuals, tailor-made trainings for industry and organisations and academic programmes. The formats take place online or on-site at the RENAC training center in Berlin. In addition to the regular training programmes, RENAC also offers projects in partnership with other organisations in developing countries. These are usually free through financial support by third parties.  
+
|This policy was approved by the Federal Executive Council in 2015 and details the Nigerian government’s blueprint for harnessing the country’s renewable energy resources to drive sustainable development.
 +
|-
 +
|[https://www.se4all-africa.org/fileadmin/uploads/se4all/Documents/Country_PANER/Nigeria_National_Renewable_Energy_Action_Plans_.pdf National Renewable Energy Action Plans (NREAP)]
 +
|Federal Ministry of Power
 +
|This action plan was approved by the National Council on Power (NACOP) in July 2016 and serves to implement the renewable energy component of the 2015 NREEEP.
 
|-
 
|-
−
|[https://unitar.org/courses/energy-delivery-models-edm-training-7792 Energy Delivery Modes (EDM) Training by UNITAR]
+
|[http://www.se4all.ecreee.org/sites/default/files/national_energy_efficiency_action_plans_neeap_2015_-_2030.pdf National Energy Efficiency Action Plan (NEEAP)]
−
|Online
+
|Federal Ministry of Power
−
|The United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) offers a wide range of courses and training activities for a diverse audience. The free EDM training aims to build staff capacity to support the integration of energy access and sustainable delivery models of modern energy services into humanitarian and development programming. It is based on the EDM Toolkit developed by IIED and CAFOD. The course consists of three modules:
+
|This action plan was approved by NACOP in July 2016 and serves to implement the energy efficiency component of the 2015 NREEEP.
−
 
+
|-
−
* Module 1: Introduction to Energy Access in Displacement Contexts
+
|[https://rea.gov.ng/download/rural-electrification-strategy-implementation-plan-resip/ Rural Electrification Strategy and Implementation Plan (RESIP)]
−
* Module 2: Hands-on Design of Energy Delivery Models
+
|Federal Ministry of Power/ REA
−
* Module 3: Developing & Managing Your Energy Project
+
|This strategy and implementation plan was approved in July 2016 and was prepared by the Federal Ministry of Power, Works and Housing (presently Federal Ministry of Power) to be executed by REA. The document was developed in line with FGN’s plan for rural electrification and provides the implementation framework and measures for driving rural electrification across the country using both on and off-grid energy solutions.
 +
|-
 +
|[https://rea.gov.ng/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/NERC-Mini-Grid-Regulation.pdf NERC Mini-Grid Regulations 2016]
 +
|NERC
 +
|These regulations were released by NERC in May 2017 and are the overarching document governing the development of mini-grid electricity generation (0-100 KW – 1 MW) in Nigeria. The regulation is designed to accelerate the electrification of unserved and underserved areas especially rural and peri-urban communities. It incentivizes and minimizes major risks associated with mini-grid investments and simplifies the process for private sector participation. This document was replaced in 2023 by the  NERC Mini Grid Regulations 2023.
 +
|-
 +
|[https://nerc.gov.ng/index.php/library/documents/func-startdown/1195/ NERC Mini Grid Regulations 2023]
 +
|NERC
 +
|
 +
|-
 +
|[https://www.seforall.org/sites/default/files/NIGERIA_SE4ALL_ACTION_AGENDA_FINAL.pdf Sustainable Energy for All Action Agenda (SE4All-AA),]
 +
|Federal Ministry of Power
 +
|Nigeria’s SE4All Action Agenda was approved by NACOP in July 2016. The key objectives of the SE4All initiatives globally are to ensure universal access to modern energy services, double the global rate of improvement in energy efficiency, and double the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix by 2030.
 +
|-
 +
|[https://unfccc.int/documents/497790 Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC)]
 +
|Federal Ministry of Environment
 +
|Nigeria’s NDCs are its global commitment to sustainable development measures that limit the rate of global warming and negative impacts of climate change. It includes the country’s climate targets and plans to achieve them
 
|-
 
|-
−
|[https://core-initiative.org/resources/ Cornerstone of rural electrification (CORE)]
+
|[https://nerc.gov.ng/index.php/library/documents/Regulations/NERC-Eligible-Customer-Regulation-2017/ NERC Eligible Customer Regulations]
−
|Online
+
|NERC
−
|The CORE initiative was jointly launched by ARE, ICA, IRENA, SforAll, UNEO and UNIDO to address the immense capacity building and technical assistance needs to support the development of DRE systems. It offers technical assistance to Practitioners on aspects related to improving safety, efficiency and reliability of decentralised electrification projects; Communities (especially women) on productive use of electricity; and to Governments on enhancing the policy and regulatory framework in support of decentralised electrification.
+
|The Eligible Customer Regulations were approved in 2017 by NERC and permit electricity companies and Independent Power Producers (IPPs) to by-pass the Bulk Trader (the Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Plc (NBET) and DISCOs in order to sell electricity directly to eligible customers.
 
|-
 
|-
−
|[https://asteveninstitute.edu.ng/ Asteven Renewable Energy Academy]
+
|[https://nerc.gov.ng/index.php/component/remository/Regulations/REGULATIONS-ON-NATIONAL-CONTENT-DEVELOPMENT-FOR-THE-POWER-SECTOR-2014-A.pdf/?Itemid=591 Regulation on National Content Development for the Power Sector]
−
|Nigeria, UK
+
|NERC
−
|Asteven Energy is the first Innovation Enterprise Institution(IEI) approved by the Federal Ministry of Education (FME) and accredited by Nigeria’s National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) to offer a National Innovation Diploma (NID) in Solar Energy Technology. It is accredited by the ECOWAS Center for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (ECREEE) as a recognized institution for training and certification in Solar Photovoltaic (Off Grid) Installation in Nigeria.
+
|This regulation was approved by NERC in 2014 and aims to promote the deliberate utilization of local human workforce and material resources across the value chain of the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI).
 +
|}
  
  
−
Offers:
+
The Energypedia article [[Policy and Regulatory Framework for Energy in Nigeria]] discusses the regulatory landscape in more detail.
 +
==Guiding Principles==
 +
This subsection will touch on regulations and policies that directly govern the development of minigrids, manufacturing and distribution of SHS, including regulations for consumer payments, and customs and importation duties.
  
−
* Solar Photovoltaik installation training (SPVI) For beginners and for those with limited knowledge
+
===Consumer payments ===
−
* National Innovation diploma in solar energy technology
+
Nigeria is largely a cash-based economy. In recent years, while mobile payment transactions have become more widely adopted, penetration still remains low. To tackle this issue, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) introduced Payment Service Banks (PSBs) in 2018. These PSBs enable telecom companies to use their extensive networks to offer financial services in underserved areas of Nigeria. While PSBs are relatively new, they hold great promise for off-grid companies looking to simplify payments for their offerings, especially in financially underserved regions<ref name=":0">USAID & Power Africa. (2022). PA NPSP Off-Grid Market Intelligence Report. <nowiki>https://pdf.usaid.gov/pdf_docs/PA00ZB5X.pdf</nowiki></ref>.
 +
 
 +
Relevant CBN regulations for consumer payments include:
 +
 
 +
*Guidelines for the Regulation of Agent Banking and Relationships in Nigeria (2013)
 +
*Regulatory Framework for Mobile Money Services in Nigeria
 +
*Guidelines on Mobile Money Services in Nigeria (2015)
 +
*Consumer Protection Regulations (2019)
 +
* Guidelines for Licensing and Regulation of PSBs (Revised in 2020)
 +
* CBN Regulatory and Supervisory Guidelines for Microfinance Banks in Nigeria (TBA)
 +
 
 +
===Customs and importation===
 +
The relevant regulations governing the importation of off-grid components and products into Kenya are the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Common External Tariff (CET) and SON Conformity Assessment Program (SONCAP). Table 2 summarizes the primary customs duties for off-grid components in Nigeria.
 +
{| class="wikitable"
 +
|+Table 2: Summary of Custom Duties for Off-Grid Components<ref name=":0" />
 +
!Category
 +
!Duty Assessed
 +
!For Mini-grids
 +
! For SHS
 
|-
 
|-
−
|[https://ashdamsolar.com/academy/ Ashdam Solar Academy]
+
|PV Modules
−
|Nigeria, online
+
| 0%
−
|Ashdam Solar specialized in design, installation and O&M of off-grid solar systems in Nigeria. They offer a variety of online courses, including basic information of renewable energy generation over system configuration and installment to customer service. Furthermore they have several onsite and blended (online and onsite) courses. One example is the “Solar Queen Program” which explicitly addresses women.
+
|Yes
 +
|
 
|-
 
|-
−
|[https://bluecamel.academy/ Blue Camel Energy Academy]
+
|PV Systems
−
|Nigeria, online
+
|5%
−
|The academy provides a range of online and onsite (tailored) training services for the renewable energy industry. Excerpt from the course list:
+
|Yes
−
 
+
|
−
* Solar Photovoltaic Installation and supervision (SPVIS)
 
−
* Solar street lightning
 
−
* Technical vocational education & training TVET)
 
−
* Energy management course
 
−
* Solar system sizing & maintenance
 
−
* Finance
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
|[https://ecowatt.com.ng/ Ecowatt Nigeria]
+
|PV Generator
−
|Nigeria
+
|5%
−
|Ecowatt is a solution provider for sustainable development with focus on affordable and clean energy development. The company offers hands-on training courses and workshops which can vary from standard to tailor-made courses. They also organize trainings and study tours to Germany/Europe.
+
|Yes
−
 
+
|
−
* Due Diligence for Solar
 
−
* Industrial and Commercial
 
−
* Energy Audit Training
 
−
* ISO 50001 Energy Management System EnMS
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
|[https://edu.grecopower.com.ng/ GreCo Academy]
+
|Lithium Batteries
−
|Online
+
|20%
−
|GreCo Academy provides quality training that covers the entire solar energy value chain from finance, marketing, management policy-making and solar engineering. They also offer a variety of free courses. Excerpt of course offer:
+
|
−
 
+
|Yes
−
* Basics of how to start a solar business
 
−
* Business and Finance
 
−
* Energy efficiency in buildings
 
−
* Customer service
 
−
* Policies and regulations
 
−
* Homer software
 
−
* Data collection
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
|[http://www.naptin.gov.ng/ National Power Training Institute of Nigeria (NAPTIN)]
+
|Others (SHS)
−
|Nigeria
+
|5-20%
−
|NAPTIN is a parastatal training institute under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Power. In this context it offers training and certification among others for generation companies (GenCos) & distribution companies (DisCos), the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) and the Rural Electrification Agency (REA). Excerpt of course offer:
+
|
−
Technical courses:
+
| Yes
 +
|}
  
−
* NGSDP (Graduate skills development programme)
+
===Setting up an off-grid business===
−
* NTSAP (Technical skills acquisition programme)
+
According to the Doing Business Report by the World Bank, ease of doing business in Nigeria is low. It holds a score of 56.9, placing it at the 131st position among 190 countries<ref>World Bank. (2020). Ease of doing business in Nigeria. <nowiki>https://archive.doingbusiness.org/en/data/exploreeconomies/nigeria</nowiki></ref>. To tackle this challenge, key regulations pertaining to business establishment and registration in Nigeria are outlined in the Companies and Allied Matters Act of 2020. In August 2020, President Muhammadu Buhari of Nigeria signed into law the Companies and Allied Matters Act 2020 (CAMA 2020)<ref>Proshare. (2020). The Sea is History – the CAMA 2020 Aspires to Optimize Corporate Regulation. <nowiki>https://www.proshareng.com/news/DOING%20BUSINESS%20IN%20NIGERIA/The-Sea-is-History---the-CAMA-2020-Aspiresto-Optimize-Corporate-Regulation-in-Nigeria/52994</nowiki></ref>, replacing the previous 1990 Act. CAMA 2020 presents a comprehensive framework aimed at addressing burdensome legal, regulatory, and administrative hurdles that have made business operations particularly challenging, especially for MSMEs. Under this Act, the registration of businesses is handled by the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) – the government body responsible for providing business registration and regulatory services. Figure 8 illustrates the process for setting up a business in Nigeria.
−
* PGD (Post graduate diploma in Power system O&M)
 
−
* On-the-job training
 
  
−
Non technical courses:
+
Figure 1: Business registration process<ref name=":0" />
  
−
* Leadership & Management
+
[[File:Business Registration Process USAID.png]]
−
* Marketing & Customer Service
+
{| class="wikitable"
−
* Electricity trading, regulation & pricing
+
|1
−
* Other, non-technical & soft-skills
+
|Check for availability of proposed company name.
 
|-
 
|-
−
|[https://retti.com.ng/ Renewable Energy Technology Training Institute (RETTI)]
+
|2
−
|Online
+
|Complete pre-registration form CAC 1.1
−
|The training institute provides tailored education within and across the value chain of renewable energy and energy efficiency.
+
|-
−
 
+
|3
−
* Design and Installation
+
|Pay filing and stamp duty fees.
−
* Safety course
+
|-
−
* Maintenance
+
|4
−
* Business and entrepreneurship
+
|Prepare the signed scan copy of your pre-registration documents for uploads as follows: Form CAC 1.1 and the Memorandum and Article of Association (MEMART)
−
* Starting a profitable solar business
+
|-
−
* Import
+
|5
 +
|Recognized form of identification for Director(s) Subscriber(s) and Secretary
 +
|-
 +
|6
 +
| Provide evidence of CAC and upload scanned documents for processing.
 
|-
 
|-
−
|[https://www.rubitecsolar.com/academy/ Rubitec Academy]
+
|7
−
|Nigeria
+
|Submit the original copies of the documents to the CAC office selected in exchange for your certificate and the Certified True copies of the documents.
−
|Rubitec Limited is a leading Nigerian renewable energy company. Rubitec Academy is an initiative to partner with academic and training institutions in Nigeria and abroad in developing future leaders in Renewable Energy and Environmental Science through a 1-year workplace training programme. Requirement is experience in the field.  
 
−
 
 
−
* SPVI
 
−
* SPVIS
 
−
* Minigrid designer
 
 
|}
 
|}
 +
It is important to note the following for Foreign Nationals:
  
−
==== Include community engagement ====
+
*Foreign nationals not resident in Nigeria do not require permits before establishing a business or investing in Nigeria. However, foreign national’s resident in Nigeria need a residence permit before forming a company.
−
Community members are still largely excluded from substantive aspects of decision making and implementation processes that are essential for their long-term viability and sustainability. According to Uduka et al. (2022), the lack of community involvement is a “missed opportunity”. Integrating communities in the development process of mini-grids can foster a sense of local ownership and can improve the functionality of the project<ref>Uduka, U. and Sesan, T. (2022) ‘Mini-grid development and management in Nigeria: There is a need for deeper community engagement’, SIGMA project. Available at: <nowiki>https://www.sigma-gcrf.net/blog/mini-grid-development-and-management-in-nigeria-there-is-a-need-for-deeper-community-engagement</nowiki>.</ref>.
+
*Companies intending to use the services of foreign workers need to obtain expatriate quota from the Nigerian Investment Promotion Council.
 +
*Foreign companies intending to do business in Nigeria may apply for exemption from registration especially those undertaking special projects. <ref name=":0" />
  
−
Community involvement should start right in the beginning. A key part of the planning progress of a mini-grid is the community needs assessment where the [[Estimate_and_Stimulate_Demand|demand is estimated]]. An early exchange with the local community can help to understand the energy needs and willingness to pay for energy services. Furthermore, the communities can help to understand the local resource rights and prevent future conflicts. Developers can also consider the involvement of the community in the ownership model. There are various options, ranging from sole ownership to a partnership with the company <ref name=":3">USAID. What ownership models are used for mini-grids? https://www.usaid.gov/energy/mini-grids/ownership/models</ref>. Business models that are co-created with the users may enhance competitive advantage while integrating the voice of the community<ref>Mukoro, V., Sharmina, M. and Gallego-Schmid, A. (2022) ‘A review of business models for access to affordable and clean energy in Africa: Do they deliver social, economic, and environmental value?’, Energy Research & Social Science, 88. Available at: <nowiki>https://doi.org/10.1016/j.erss.2022.102530</nowiki>.</ref>.
+
==Existing Tools and Resources==
−
 
+
*
−
To ensure the commitment of the community, a strong community representation in the operation and maintenance of a mini-grid is inevitable. Accordingly, comprehensive training is advantageous for a smooth operation. An extensive engagement can enhance the acceptance of the project<ref name=":2">SIGMA (2022) ‘Community participation in mini-grids development: Key points to focus on’. Available at: <nowiki>https://www.sigma-gcrf.net/blog/community-participation-in-mini-grids-development-key-points-to-focus-on</nowiki>.</ref>.
 
−
 
 
−
==== Consider aspects of gender equality ====
 
−
To improve diversity and inclusion, developers should provide training for all genders<ref name=":1" />. A selection of training academies already offers courses targeting women specifically. There is a greater potential of gender-sensitive approaches to reduce household poverty and increase the overall wellbeing of the community <ref>Soler, A., Jäger, J. and Lecoque, D. (2020) Women Entrepreneurs as Key Drivers in the Decentralised Renewable Energy Sector. Available at: <nowiki>https://www.ruralelec.org/sites/default/files/Gender%20%26%20Energy%20Publication.pdf</nowiki>.</ref>. Women benefit from an increase in electricity supply by spending less time on household production, providing them more time for e.g. economic activities. This in turn leads to an increase in employment and factor incomes which benefits the whole community<ref>Cicowiez, M. et al. (2022) ‘Gender-differentiated impacts of a Rural Electrification Policy in Nigeria’, Energy Policy, 162, p. 112774. Available at: <nowiki>https://doi.org/10.1016/j.enpol.2021.112774</nowiki>.</ref>.
 
−
 
 
−
To ensure a comprehensive and diverse perspective, women and other disadvantaged members should be included in decision processes. Developers should also consider women-led groups for better representation<ref name=":2" />. Public meetings and other outreach efforts should take place at times when women can attend and should be adapted to women needs<ref name=":0" />.
 
−
 
 
−
==== Community-based model ====
 
−
Under community-based models, local communities own, manage, operate and maintain mini-grids. These communities usually receive external help with financing, design and installation. Often, the developer or another outside organization provides technical capacity building, and a public entity or donor provides grants or other financial assistance. Once the mini-grid is installed, the community assumes responsibility for tariff collection and operations and maintenance. Community electricity cooperatives and other local organizations often play this role <ref name=":3" />.  There is evidence of failed community-based models due to a gap in local capacity and a rushed ownership transfer<ref>Katre, A. and Tozzi, A. (2019) ‘Using hugs, carrots and sticks: How agents exercise power in the transition to community-owned energy systems in remote India’, Energy Research & Social Science, 54, pp. 129–139. Available at: <nowiki>https://doi.org/10.1016/j.erss.2019.04.008</nowiki>.</ref>.
 
−
 
 
−
==Existing Tools==
 
−
 
 
−
*  
 
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
|+
 
|+
Line 148: Line 155:
 
!Description
 
!Description
 
|-
 
|-
−
|[https://acumen.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Women_And_Social_Enterprises_Report_Acumen_ICRW_2015.pdf '''Diagnostic tool for effective gender integration (ICRW and Acumen)''']
+
|[https://www.all-on.com/media/publications/simplified-guides-to-nigerias-energy-access-policies-and-regulations/_jcr_content/par/textimage.stream/1595008807872/c0fb235222b78a401a7d20fd05ed733af78e6b7d/mini-grid-regulations.pdf Regulations for Mini-Grids 2016, Simplified Summary]
−
|No
+
|Yes
 
|Yes
 
|Yes
−
|Based on the study of seven case studies from different industries and geographies, the report “Women and social enterprises: how gender integration can boost entrepreneurial solutions to poverty” (source) contains a new framework that outlines the ways in which gender can influence key business decisions. This framework can be applied as a diagnostic tool to uncover opportunities to more effectively integrate gender in ways that will support the business and social goals of these companies.
+
|This Guide provides a simplified summary of the regulation primarily for stakeholders in the off grid renewable energy sector. It further provides some context for the regulation – including the definition and types of mini-grids, process and requirements for permit and licenses, project development processes, tariffs and other charges, relationship between stakeholders, compliance and technical requirements, compensation, dispute resolution and current implementation status.
 
|-
 
|-
−
|[https://micropowermanager.com/ '''Inensus Open-source MicroPowerManager''']
+
|[https://rean.org.ng/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/221220-NG-mini-grid-position-paper-1.pdf Future-proofing the expanding market: Recommendations for improving the bankability of the mini-grid regulatory framework in Nigeria]
−
|No
 
 
|Yes
 
|Yes
−
|The software was developed by INENSUS and facilitates the entire data management for decentralized electric utilities (DEUs) within a single platform. Operators and maintainers no longer need to operate their own server, but can transfer and access their data on the platform without further IT knowledge.
+
|Yes
 +
|This position paper aims to discuss further the identified gaps/lack of clarity – regulatory and policy – which are slowing down the scaling of the mini-grid sector in Nigeria and to propose ways for further improvement. It has been developed jointly by key stakeholders – developers, financiers, and industry associations – driving Nigeria's mini-grid sector's growth.
 
|-
 
|-
−
|[https://api.solarpowereurope.org/uploads/Africa_edition_O_and_M_Best_Practice_Guidelines_fdea430b58.pdf '''Solar Power Europe - Operation & Maintenance: Best practice Guidelines Africa Edition''']
+
|[https://powerlibrary.theelectricityhub.com/ Nigeria Electricity Hub: Power Library]
−
|No
 
 
|Yes
 
|Yes
−
|The document assists the reader in developing a general understanding of the topic. The guideline addresses O&M contractors as well as installers, owners, investors, financiers, monitoring tool providers, technical consultants and interested stakeholders in Sub-Saharan Africa.
+
|Yes
 +
|This online library provides a collection of regulatory documents, policy roadmaps, press releases, reports, research articles, and publications for the renewable power sector in Nigeria.  
 
|-
 
|-
−
|[https://www.usaid.gov/energy/mini-grids/community '''USAID - Community Involvement in Mini-Grids (Mini-Grids Support Toolkit)''']
+
|[https://sun-connect.org/wpcont/uploads/Minigrid-Nigeria.pdf Mini-Grids as Catalyst for Renewable Electricity Access: An Overview of Extant Laws]
−
|No
 
 
|Yes
 
|Yes
−
|The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) developed a toolkit for mini-grid developers including a section for community involvement. The section consists of various modules on how to engage local communities, how to assess energy needs and community support, a description of conflict types that may arise and how to measure the social benefit and impacts of a project.
+
|Yes
−
|-
+
|The core of this article is to highlight the role of mini-grids in solving the electricity problems and examine the existing legal framework for the establishment of mini-grids in Nigeria.  
−
|[https://www.cometapp.net/ '''Community Energy Toolkit (COMET)''']
 
−
|No
 
−
|No
 
−
|COMET is a role-playing software tool built around a representation of a mini-grid system, intended to be used as an educational and collaborative planning tool in designing a community-sized mini-grid system. The tool is designed to be used within a process that explores mini-grid planning and operational decisions. After the simulation, one can generate reports and analyse data on consumer demand and payments. Communities can develop workable solutions to challenges of managing a community-sized mini-grid, such as system sizing, tariff-setting, and demand-side management. By playing as a group, the players can also improve their understanding of energy technology, practice negotiation and consensus-building skills.
 
 
|}
 
|}
  

Latest revision as of 09:19, 4 March 2024



Introduction

Nigerian developers working on decentralized renewable electricity solutions for off-grid areas should consider several key aspects of regulations and policies to ensure compliance and the successful implementation of their projects. This page will give an overview of the regulatory landscape and list tools and resources that are of use specifically for developers.

Fundamental remarks

Mini grids

Over the last few years, mini-grids have played a key role in implementing Nigeria’s energy access and sustainable energy goals. They are now widely acknowledged as an integral component of the country’s energy ecosystem, delivering sustainable and reliable electricity access to nearly 27 thousand households living in areas that, until now, were out of reach of or unreliably served by the main grid infrastructure[1].

In 2016, two significant developments took place in the Nigerian energy sector. First, the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) released the Rural Electrification Strategy and Implementation Plan (RESIP), which acknowledged mini-grids’ role in closing the energy access gap and improving supply. In the same year, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) approved comprehensive mini-grid regulation, NERC Regulation for Mini-grids 2016, covering a broad set of issues, from mini-grid licensing to quality standards and tariff design. This regulation has been replaced in 2023 by the NERC Minigrid Regulations 2023. Changes in the Regulations concern: (1) Provision enabling Mini-grid permits for interconnected mini-grid operators, (2) Introduction of portfolio of isolated and interconnected mini-grids, (3) Provision for a submission of individual and combined reports for each mini grid and portfolio of min-grids respectively, (4) Submission of reports on mini-grids at least once in a year, (5) Stringent system for finding discrepancies in inspection of accounts for adjustment of tariffs, (6) Provision of 12-month notification period to isolated mini-grid permit holder for Disco interconnection, (7) Improvement in compensation and transfer of asset process to the Disco during interconnection in return for compensation, (8) Filing of decommissioning plan by the Disco and the registered mini-grid operator, (9) Provision facilitating compensation to interconnected mini-grid operator where Disco reintegrates interconnected mini-grid into its network, (10) Provision to file either a single tariff application for all sites under a portfolio of isolated/interconnected mini-grids or individual application for each site under the two portfolios, (11) Reduction of allowable technical losses and non-technical losses cap for determining retail tariffs from 10% to 4% and 3% respectively [2].


Table 1: Summary of Key Policies Governing Off-grid Sector[3]

Policy Agency Description
National Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Policy (NREEEP) Federal Ministry of Power This policy was approved by the Federal Executive Council in 2015 and details the Nigerian government’s blueprint for harnessing the country’s renewable energy resources to drive sustainable development.
National Renewable Energy Action Plans (NREAP) Federal Ministry of Power This action plan was approved by the National Council on Power (NACOP) in July 2016 and serves to implement the renewable energy component of the 2015 NREEEP.
National Energy Efficiency Action Plan (NEEAP) Federal Ministry of Power This action plan was approved by NACOP in July 2016 and serves to implement the energy efficiency component of the 2015 NREEEP.
Rural Electrification Strategy and Implementation Plan (RESIP) Federal Ministry of Power/ REA This strategy and implementation plan was approved in July 2016 and was prepared by the Federal Ministry of Power, Works and Housing (presently Federal Ministry of Power) to be executed by REA. The document was developed in line with FGN’s plan for rural electrification and provides the implementation framework and measures for driving rural electrification across the country using both on and off-grid energy solutions.
NERC Mini-Grid Regulations 2016 NERC These regulations were released by NERC in May 2017 and are the overarching document governing the development of mini-grid electricity generation (0-100 KW – 1 MW) in Nigeria. The regulation is designed to accelerate the electrification of unserved and underserved areas especially rural and peri-urban communities. It incentivizes and minimizes major risks associated with mini-grid investments and simplifies the process for private sector participation. This document was replaced in 2023 by the NERC Mini Grid Regulations 2023.
NERC Mini Grid Regulations 2023 NERC
Sustainable Energy for All Action Agenda (SE4All-AA), Federal Ministry of Power Nigeria’s SE4All Action Agenda was approved by NACOP in July 2016. The key objectives of the SE4All initiatives globally are to ensure universal access to modern energy services, double the global rate of improvement in energy efficiency, and double the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix by 2030.
Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) Federal Ministry of Environment Nigeria’s NDCs are its global commitment to sustainable development measures that limit the rate of global warming and negative impacts of climate change. It includes the country’s climate targets and plans to achieve them
NERC Eligible Customer Regulations NERC The Eligible Customer Regulations were approved in 2017 by NERC and permit electricity companies and Independent Power Producers (IPPs) to by-pass the Bulk Trader (the Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Plc (NBET) and DISCOs in order to sell electricity directly to eligible customers.
Regulation on National Content Development for the Power Sector NERC This regulation was approved by NERC in 2014 and aims to promote the deliberate utilization of local human workforce and material resources across the value chain of the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI).


The Energypedia article Policy and Regulatory Framework for Energy in Nigeria discusses the regulatory landscape in more detail.

Guiding Principles

This subsection will touch on regulations and policies that directly govern the development of minigrids, manufacturing and distribution of SHS, including regulations for consumer payments, and customs and importation duties.

Consumer payments

Nigeria is largely a cash-based economy. In recent years, while mobile payment transactions have become more widely adopted, penetration still remains low. To tackle this issue, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) introduced Payment Service Banks (PSBs) in 2018. These PSBs enable telecom companies to use their extensive networks to offer financial services in underserved areas of Nigeria. While PSBs are relatively new, they hold great promise for off-grid companies looking to simplify payments for their offerings, especially in financially underserved regions[4].

Relevant CBN regulations for consumer payments include:

  • Guidelines for the Regulation of Agent Banking and Relationships in Nigeria (2013)
  • Regulatory Framework for Mobile Money Services in Nigeria
  • Guidelines on Mobile Money Services in Nigeria (2015)
  • Consumer Protection Regulations (2019)
  • Guidelines for Licensing and Regulation of PSBs (Revised in 2020)
  • CBN Regulatory and Supervisory Guidelines for Microfinance Banks in Nigeria (TBA)

Customs and importation

The relevant regulations governing the importation of off-grid components and products into Kenya are the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Common External Tariff (CET) and SON Conformity Assessment Program (SONCAP). Table 2 summarizes the primary customs duties for off-grid components in Nigeria.

Table 2: Summary of Custom Duties for Off-Grid Components[4]
Category Duty Assessed For Mini-grids For SHS
PV Modules 0% Yes
PV Systems 5% Yes
PV Generator 5% Yes
Lithium Batteries 20% Yes
Others (SHS) 5-20% Yes

Setting up an off-grid business

According to the Doing Business Report by the World Bank, ease of doing business in Nigeria is low. It holds a score of 56.9, placing it at the 131st position among 190 countries[5]. To tackle this challenge, key regulations pertaining to business establishment and registration in Nigeria are outlined in the Companies and Allied Matters Act of 2020. In August 2020, President Muhammadu Buhari of Nigeria signed into law the Companies and Allied Matters Act 2020 (CAMA 2020)[6], replacing the previous 1990 Act. CAMA 2020 presents a comprehensive framework aimed at addressing burdensome legal, regulatory, and administrative hurdles that have made business operations particularly challenging, especially for MSMEs. Under this Act, the registration of businesses is handled by the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) – the government body responsible for providing business registration and regulatory services. Figure 8 illustrates the process for setting up a business in Nigeria.

Figure 1: Business registration process[4]

Business Registration Process USAID.png

1 Check for availability of proposed company name.
2 Complete pre-registration form CAC 1.1
3 Pay filing and stamp duty fees.
4 Prepare the signed scan copy of your pre-registration documents for uploads as follows: Form CAC 1.1 and the Memorandum and Article of Association (MEMART)
5 Recognized form of identification for Director(s) Subscriber(s) and Secretary
6 Provide evidence of CAC and upload scanned documents for processing.
7 Submit the original copies of the documents to the CAC office selected in exchange for your certificate and the Certified True copies of the documents.

It is important to note the following for Foreign Nationals:

  • Foreign nationals not resident in Nigeria do not require permits before establishing a business or investing in Nigeria. However, foreign national’s resident in Nigeria need a residence permit before forming a company.
  • Companies intending to use the services of foreign workers need to obtain expatriate quota from the Nigerian Investment Promotion Council.
  • Foreign companies intending to do business in Nigeria may apply for exemption from registration especially those undertaking special projects. [4]

Existing Tools and Resources

Name Nigeria specific Open source Description
Regulations for Mini-Grids 2016, Simplified Summary Yes Yes This Guide provides a simplified summary of the regulation primarily for stakeholders in the off grid renewable energy sector. It further provides some context for the regulation – including the definition and types of mini-grids, process and requirements for permit and licenses, project development processes, tariffs and other charges, relationship between stakeholders, compliance and technical requirements, compensation, dispute resolution and current implementation status.
Future-proofing the expanding market: Recommendations for improving the bankability of the mini-grid regulatory framework in Nigeria Yes Yes This position paper aims to discuss further the identified gaps/lack of clarity – regulatory and policy – which are slowing down the scaling of the mini-grid sector in Nigeria and to propose ways for further improvement. It has been developed jointly by key stakeholders – developers, financiers, and industry associations – driving Nigeria's mini-grid sector's growth.
Nigeria Electricity Hub: Power Library Yes Yes This online library provides a collection of regulatory documents, policy roadmaps, press releases, reports, research articles, and publications for the renewable power sector in Nigeria.
Mini-Grids as Catalyst for Renewable Electricity Access: An Overview of Extant Laws Yes Yes The core of this article is to highlight the role of mini-grids in solving the electricity problems and examine the existing legal framework for the establishment of mini-grids in Nigeria.

Bibliography

  1. ↑ REAN (2022) Future-proofing the expanding market: Recommendations for improving the bankability of the mini-grid regulatory framework in Nigeria. Multi-stakeholder position paper. Available at: https://rean.org.ng/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/221220-NG-mini-grid-position-paper-1.pdf
  2. ↑ Okediya, Peter (2024). The 2023 Mini-Grid Regulations: What’s New, Project Development Procedures and Permit Requirements.https://energybriefbyfortrose.substack.com/p/the-2023-mini-grid-regulations-whats
  3. ↑ USAID (2021) PA-NPSP Off-Grid Market Intelligence Report. The Nigeria Power Sector Reform Program.
  4. ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 4.3 USAID & Power Africa. (2022). PA NPSP Off-Grid Market Intelligence Report. https://pdf.usaid.gov/pdf_docs/PA00ZB5X.pdf
  5. ↑ World Bank. (2020). Ease of doing business in Nigeria. https://archive.doingbusiness.org/en/data/exploreeconomies/nigeria
  6. ↑ Proshare. (2020). The Sea is History – the CAMA 2020 Aspires to Optimize Corporate Regulation. https://www.proshareng.com/news/DOING%20BUSINESS%20IN%20NIGERIA/The-Sea-is-History---the-CAMA-2020-Aspiresto-Optimize-Corporate-Regulation-in-Nigeria/52994
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