From Mustapha Adamu, Kano
The European Union (EU) and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) have launched 2 Energy Efficiency Networks (EEN) for industries and overall economic growth of Kano State, Under the Nigerian Energy Support Programme (NESP).
PEOPLES DAILY reports that the initiative, which is under the NESP, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Power, with co-funding from the German Development Cooperation and the European Union seeks to support Kano sate, which is the Northern Nigeria’s commercial and industrial hub, in addressing the energy challenges impacting the state’s economic growth and social development.
Speaking at the launching ceremony, held in Kano on Thursday, Dr Markus Wagner, Country Director, GIZ Nigeria & ECOWAS, represented by Joshua Garba Yari, Head of Component, GIZ Nigeria & ECOWAS, said the initiative is timely and underscores Germany’s commitment to supporting inclusive growth and the energy transition efforts of the Nigerian Government.
The German Government, according to Joshua Garba, through the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), is proud to support the initiative within the framework of the NESP, a technical assistance programme co-financed with the European Union and implemented by GIZ.
“Germany has long recognized the importance of energy efficiency in enhancing the economic competitiveness of industries in the global market.
“These efforts align perfectly with Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan, which among other things aims at doubling the rate of improvement in energy efficiency by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2060.
“Germany recognises that to achieve these targets, increased investment in energy efficiency technologies and infrastructure is crucial. We therefore remain steadfast in our commitment to supporting Nigeria’s journey toward sustainable development and clean energy transition.
“We believe that by improving energy efficiency in the industrial sector, we can enhance energy security for the sector, reduce specific energy costs per production output, create jobs, and contribute to mitigating climate change,” Dr Jansen said.
Inga Stefanowicz, Head of Green and Digital Economy section of European Union delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, at the event, highlighted the strategic importance of Kano State as a vibrant commercial and industrial hub in Northern Nigeria.
She said the state presents a vital opportunity to scale energy efficiency practices and unlock its economic potential in a sustainable way.
The Head of Green and Digital Economy Section said the European Union and the German Government have been providing technical support to the Nigerian Government through the Nigerian Energy Support Programme (NESP).
“The programme aims to create an enabling environment and foster investments in the domestic market for renewable energy, energy efficiency, and rural electrification.”
