Starsight Energy Invests $15 Million in Nigeria solar expansion
In a significant move to bolster clean energy access in West Africa, Starsight Energy Africa Group has secured $15 million in mezzanine financing from British International Investment (BII), the UK’s development finance institution. This strategic funding, announced on March 16, 2026, is earmarked for the expansion of solar energy projects, with a primary focus on Nigeria.
The investment is set to accelerate the growth of Starsight’s clean energy operations, particularly for its commercial and industrial (C&I) clients. The capital will be deployed to finance new solar installations, manage asset replacements, ensure service continuity, and strengthen overall operations in key markets, including Nigeria and Ghana.
Tackling the Energy Crisis with Nigeria solar expansion
The majority of the funds are designated for Nigeria, a country facing significant energy hurdles. With an unreliable national grid, Nigerian businesses often depend on expensive and polluting diesel and petrol generators, which account for up to 40 GW of the nation’s electricity supply. This reliance not only increases operational costs but also contributes to carbon emissions.
Starsight’s model directly addresses this issue by providing dependable, on-site renewable power solutions. By scaling its solar projects, the company helps businesses reduce their dependence on fossil fuels, enhance their energy resilience, and unlock potential for growth.
Investment Confidence Displayed in Nigeria solar expansion
The investment from BII signals strong investor confidence in the future of distributed renewables across Sub-Saharan Africa. Benson Adenuga of BII highlighted Starsight’s effective model for reducing petroleum dependence and increasing power reliability, noting its alignment with sustainable development goals.
Echoing this sentiment, UK Deputy High Commissioner Jonny Baxter emphasized that the investment supports Nigeria’s crucial shift toward cleaner and more reliable energy sources. This transition is vital for fostering a more stable environment for business operations and economic development.
For their part, Starsight executives, including Michael Chuchu and Paul van Zijl, have underscored the importance of this funding in scaling their low-carbon solutions at a time of significant energy instability. This new round of mezzanine debt will enable Starsight to continue its mission of providing sustainable energy that powers productivity and growth for businesses across West Africa.
