Foundation unveils platform for renewable energy awareness

The Consumer Advocacy and Empowerment Foundation has unveiled a digital platform to equip Nigerians with the knowledge and tools needed to embrace renewable energy solutions.

Unveiled in Lagos, the platform aims to democratise access to clean energy resources and promote sustainable living across the country. CAFE, a not-for-profit organisation, focuses on empowering, protecting, and enlightening consumers in Nigeria.

The initiative is designed to address critical challenges in Nigeria’s renewable energy market, such as the lack of consumer information and quality standards for products.

Among its features is a solar calculator, which helps users determine the appropriate combination of solar panels, batteries, and charge controllers to suit their needs.

The Executive Director of CAFE, Prof Chiso Ndukwe-Okafor, said, “Our mission is to make renewable energy accessible to every Nigerian, not just the wealthy.”

She added that the platform, now live and accessible to the public, provides a comprehensive hub for renewable energy knowledge, tools, and resources.

“This platform empowers individuals with accurate information so they can make informed decisions,” Ndukwe-Okafor explained.

“Whether you need a single solar panel or a full system for your home, you’ll have the guidance to avoid substandard products.”

The platform also addresses misleading product specifications, a common issue in the Nigerian market. “We’ve observed cases where solar panels are advertised with higher capacities than they actually deliver,” she noted.

“This platform ensures consumers have access to verified information and a standardized way of evaluating products.”

The non-profit highlighted the platform’s alignment with national renewable energy policies and its support for Nigeria’s Sustainable Development Goals.

It also seeks to raise awareness of incentives, such as the 2022 personal income tax relief for households adopting renewable energy solutions.

“We’re calling on the public, NGOs, and private sector stakeholders to collaborate with us,” Ndukwe-Okafor said. “Through collective effort, we can expand renewable energy adoption and make it an accessible alternative for all Nigerians.”

The initiative also underscores the growing career opportunities in the renewable energy sector. “There is a global demand for professionals in equipment design, installation, and maintenance,” she remarked.

“At my former institution, we even offered courses for solar installers to meet this demand.”