LAGOS - Starsight Energy Africa Group has secured US$15 million in mezzanine debt funding from British International Investment (BII), the UK’s development finance institution and impact investor, to accelerate the growth of clean energy across its West African operations.
The funding will primarily support projects in Nigeria, with additional investment planned for Ghana. It will be deployed to scale renewable solar energy projects for commercial and industrial (C&I) customers, strengthen operations and maintain high service standards for existing clients, including asset replacement.
The investment comes as businesses across Nigeria continue to grapple with unreliable grid electricity and heavy reliance on diesel self-generation. It is estimated that up to 40GW of electricity in Nigeria is produced using diesel and petrol generators, creating significant cost and environmental challenges.
Paul van Zijl, Group CEO of Starsight Energy Africa Group, said the partnership represents a major step in expanding clean energy access in the region.
“Partnering with BII marks a significant milestone for Starsight. This funding strengthens our ability to scale more rapidly in Nigeria and Ghana, delivering reliable, clean energy solutions that support economic growth and improve energy resilience for our clients,” he said.
He added that BII’s support validates Starsight’s role in expanding energy access while providing affordable, low-carbon solutions that benefit both businesses and communities.
The collaboration aligns with BII’s goal of supporting sustainable infrastructure and private sector development in emerging markets.
According to Jonny Baxter, the UK’s Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, the investment highlights the UK’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s energy transition.
“This investment reflects the UK’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s transition to clean, reliable and affordable energy. Expanding access to dependable renewable power will help unlock business growth, strengthen energy resilience and reduce reliance on costly diesel and petrol generation,” he said.
Benson Adenuga, West Africa Regional Director at BII, noted that reliable power remains critical for business growth in Nigeria.
“Starsight’s commercial and industrial solar solutions directly address this challenge by improving reliability and reducing dependence on refined petroleum products,” Adenuga said.
Michael Chuchu, Group Commercial Director at Starsight, said the funding will unlock new capacity in markets where energy instability has historically limited growth.
“Nigeria remains our second-largest market and a core focus area for expansion. This investment demonstrates our long-term commitment to supporting businesses with reliable, environmentally responsible energy solutions,” he said.
