d.light, a global leader in solar energy solutions for under-served communities, has been named as a key participant in Nigeria’s ambitious Distributed Access through Renewable Energy Scale-up (DARES) program, set to launch this month. The $750 million initiative, backed by the World Bank, aims to transform Nigeria’s energy landscape by expanding electrification through decentralized renewable energy solutions, particularly in rural and under-served areas. d.light’s inclusion underscores its proven track record in deploying high-quality solar products at scale and its commitment to providing millions with clean, affordable energy solutions.
With over seven years of experience operating in Nigeria and a track record of success in other large-scale energy initiatives—including Uganda’s $148 million UECCC program—d.light is poised to play a pivotal role in DARES. The company’s expertise in solar energy solutions for low-income households will contribute significantly to bridging Nigeria’s electricity gap. In 2024 alone, d.light positively impacted 24 million people across the markets it serves in Africa and India, allowing the company to surpass 190 million cumulative lives impacted and contributing towards the company’s goal to transform 1 billion lives by 2030.
The DARES program represents a bold step toward sustainable energy access in Nigeria. Spearheaded by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Power, DARES will drive large-scale deployment of solar-powered mini-grids and standalone solar home systems. Of the total $750 million budget, $300 million is specifically allocated to distributed solar energy solutions, reinforcing the government’s commitment to expanding off-grid electrification and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
More than just an electrification initiative, DARES is designed to stimulate economic development by creating job opportunities, enhancing access to healthcare and education, and fostering local capacity-building for renewable energy operations and maintenance.
Participation in DARES requires companies to meet strict technical and quality standards, ensuring that only durable, high-performance solar components—including panels, inverters, and batteries—are used. Companies that establish local manufacturing or assembly facilities, create workforce training programs, and prioritize affordability will have a competitive advantage in the bidding process. These high standards align with d.light’s operational model, which prioritizes product quality, accessibility, and economic empowerment.
As DARES prepares for launch, d.light stands ready to contribute to one of Africa’s most ambitious renewable energy initiatives, reinforcing its role as a leader in solar-powered transformation. With a history of delivering innovative off-grid energy solutions, d.light’s participation in DARES is another step toward its overarching mission to bring sustainable, life-changing solar power and appliances to those who need it most.
