Policy Updates

Nigeria Introduces Net Billing Regulations

On June 3, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission released the 2026 Net Billing Regulations. This allows eligible users to generate their own power and feed surplus electricity back to the national grid to offset their bills.

• Eligibility: Targets commercial and industrial users with solar capacities between 50 kWp and 1.5 MWp.
• Pricing: Surplus power is credited based on NERC-approved export tariffs.
• Grid Limits: System capacity cannot exceed 120% of the user's load, and total connection on a single line is capped at 30% of the line's capacity.

Morocco’s Distributed Solar Policy Takes Effect

Effective June 9, Morocco has established a clear legal framework for distributed solar development. Key highlights include:

• Lower Barriers: Residential and small commercial systems under 11 kW only require prior notification, with no grid connection permit needed.
• Export Rules: Users can sell up to 20% of their total annual generation back to the grid.
• Feed-in Tariffs: Export rates are set at 0.21 MAD/kWh (peak) and 0.18 MAD/kWh (off-peak), alongside standardized grid usage fees.

Tenders & Bids

Nigeria Off-Grid Project: ECOWAS is bidding for solar systems for health centers and public schools in three Nigerian states. The scope includes supply, installation, commissioning, and 5 years of O&M. Deadline: July 2.

Oman 1.5 GW Solar Tender: Nama PWP launched pre-qualification for two standalone solar plants: Adam (1000 MW) and Sinaw (500 MW). Foreign developers must apply by July 27.

Botswana 30 MW Solar Project: Lucara Botswana is seeking a developer for a 30 MW solar project (20 MW in Phase 1). The winner will finance, build, and operate the facility under a long-term PPA. LOI Deadline: July 10.

Project Milestones

Eritrea’s Largest PV+ESS Plant Handed Over: On June 15, the 30 MW solar and 15 MW/30 MWh storage project in Dekemhare was officially handed over, significantly improving local power supply.

DRC Mining Microgrid Energized: On June 19, the Ruashi Mining PV+ESS microgrid successfully completed test power transmission. The 32 MWp solar and 58 MWh storage system now fully supports the mine's core operations.

Zambia’s First Hydro-Solar Hybrid Project Connected: Located in Central Province, this 27 MW solar project includes a substation and a 2 km transmission line. It marks a milestone in China-Africa renewable energy cooperation by combining hydro and solar power.

DRC 71.4 MW Microgrid Contract Signed: Sumec Energy and JCHX signed an EPCM contract for the Sabwe Copper Mine. The project features a 71.4 MW solar power plant and a 230 MWh energy storage plant, with smart controls for seamless grid/off-grid switching and black-start capabilities.