Nigeria stakeholders partner to manage renewable energy e-waste

Stakeholders in Nigeria are collaborating to address the growing challenge of electronic waste (e-waste) generated by the country’s expanding renewable energy sector. The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), the E-waste Producers Responsibility Organisation Nigeria (EPRON), and E-Terra Technologies Limited have entered discussions to develop frameworks for the responsible management of end-of-life solar panels, inverters, and batteries.

This initiative coincides with a significant surge in renewable energy adoption. Nigeria recorded over five million new off-grid connections between 2025 and 2026, driven by the need to provide electricity to approximately 70 million underserved citizens. The Federal Government’s DARES programme, supported by a $750 million World Bank investment, is facilitating this transition by providing capital subsidies to renewable energy firms to lower costs for rural and low-income communities.

Experts emphasize that a sustainable energy transition requires a circular economy approach. Developing systems for the collection, recovery, and recycling of renewable energy equipment is seen as critical to preventing improper disposal, such as burning or informal dismantling, which poses environmental risks.