LocationsTransitioning From Grid Reliance to Green Resilience in Nigeria
March 31, 2026
Inauguration Ceremony by the Federal Ministry of Environment H.E Hon. Balarabe Abbas Lawal, High Level Government Official and The UN Country Team
Nigeria is implementing a robust array of reforms that seek to enhance energy access for its citizens while achieving Net Zero emissions by 2060, as outlined in the National Energy Transition Plan (ETP). To meet the ambitious climate commitments espoused in its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC 3.0), the country is also transforming its energy sector to reduce reliance on traditional fossil fuels and strengthen energy security. Through leveraging abundant renewable resources - including solar, wind, and hydro - alongside other bold sectoral reforms, Nigeria is steadily diversifying its energy mix to cut emissions, drive economic resilience, and ensure a sustainable future.
Together as one United Nations family in Abuja, under the leadership of the United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator – Mr. Mohamed Malick Fall, UNDP Nigeria Resident Representative – Ms. Elsie G. Attafuah with support from the UNDP Smart Facilities team, is greening the UN House in Abuja while advancing Nigeria’s broader energy and climate ambitions.
By solarizing the UN House in Abuja, the United Nations in Nigeria is ‘walking the talk’ by demonstrating practical pathways for sustainable energy adoption. The initiative strengthens operational resilience, optimizes cost efficiency, and contributes to UNDP’s Greening Moonshot initiative.
Below is an overview of the partner agencies involved in this project:
A phased approach to solar power for the UN House in Nigeria
The project is being implemented in two phases. Phase 1 is now fully operational, with a 400 kWp solar photovoltaic (PV) system installed, reducing an estimated 283.7 tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually, equivalent to removing 150 - 400 cars from Abuja’s roads annually. Monitoring is in place to track performance with staff being trained to operate and maintain the system while ensuring long-term reliability and efficiency.
This first phase will bring an estimated annual savings of $134,649, delivering both operational benefits and clear financial returns to the UN House. Phase 2, already underway, will add 301 kWp of solar PV and a 771-kWh battery to expand renewable energy coverage and strengthen system resilience.
Both phases will cover a substantial amount of the UN House’s energy needs, reducing dependence on the grid and fuel-based generators while significantly lowering UNDP Nigeria’s operational carbon footprint.
Implementation across both phases follows the UN-recognized 7-Step process for smart and green energy solutions, guiding feasibility assessment, design, procurement, installation, and long-term maintenance.
Setting a model for green energy in Nigeria
Greening the UN House Abuja project shows how strategic partnerships can turn renewable energy plans into action. It serves as a practical, replicable model that can demonstrate how to accelerate Nigeria’s renewable energy transition, leveraging collaboration and smart investment which are key to a cleaner, more resilient future.
“The Solarization project] demonstrates the power of collaboration across the UN system”
Mohamed Malick Fall, UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria