A number of experts, who spoke at the forum on Wednesday, were unanimous in ntheir opinions of renewable energy being key to bridging the energy gap in the underserved and unserved communities.

They made their common submissions on the matter during a panel discussion, with the theme: “Bridging the Energy Gap in Un-served and Under-served Communities in Nigeria” at the ongoing AFRICANXT 2023 in Lagos, South-West Nigeria.

Founder of Dsuonenegry, Chukwuebuka Obimma, said that over 70 million people living in rural areas did not have access to electricity supply.

He said that the current energy supply gap in Nigeria was, at least, 180,000 megawatts, quoting the Association of Nigerian Electricity Distributors.

“About 600 million people across sub-Saharan African communities have no access to electricity.

“A renewable energy will, to a great extent, bridge the gap of un-served and under-served areas,” he said.

There is the need, according to him, to spend much money in partnering with community leaders, noting that rural areas are an integral part of the society.

Chief Operating Officer (COO), Ashdam Solar Company Limited, Damilola Asaleye, said that there were misconceptions about solar energy, especially about it being expensive.

“Generally, energy is expensive, but the money paid on solar energy can be gotten back within three to five years,” she said.

Asaleye stressed the need for sensitisation, education and advocacy on reliable, clean, sustainable and affordable energy.

The AFRICANXT 2023, scheduled for February 6 to February 10, has as its theme: “Cooperate. Collaborate. Innovate. Unlocking Our Potential, Ensuring Africa’s Prosperity”.