Founded in 2016, WiSolar specialises in turnkey solar installations for both residential and commercial users. Speaking in an interview with Sunday PUNCH, Tonye Irims, the company’s Founder and Chief Executive Officer, highlighted how affordability remains a barrier to clean energy adoption—and how the company is tackling it head-on.
“We know there are issues about affordability, and we are addressing that by partnering with local banks,” Irims said. “In Nigeria, we’ve partnered with Premium Trust Bank. The bank finances the solar system, so people who do not want or cannot pay cash upfront can spread the cost over two years.”
Customised Installations, Guaranteed Power
WiSolar’s approach focuses on custom-designed systems tailored to each user’s energy consumption and budget. The CEO explained that customers simply need to share their typical electricity usage—usually measured in kilowatts—and the company designs a solution that fits.
“If you’re currently spending about N150,000 monthly on your generator and grid electricity, we’ll assess if you can handle N200,000 monthly payments over 24 months for a reliable solar system,” Irims noted. “And since the systems are guaranteed for 10 years, customers enjoy nearly eight years of free electricity after payments end.”
Beyond Solar: Building Nigeria’s Battery Economy
WiSolar isn’t stopping at solar panels. Irims revealed the company is heavily involved in battery manufacturing, currently importing large volumes of storage batteries from China. However, plans are in motion to localise this process.
“We are working toward setting up an assembly plant in Nigeria to locally produce battery storage systems,” Irims said. “This move will cut down on supply chain delays, reduce costs, and create local jobs.”
By establishing local operations, WiSolar aims to support Nigeria’s renewable energy ecosystem while insulating itself from global supply chain disruptions.
Energy for a Growing Continent
As Africa’s population continues to rise, so does the demand for reliable electricity. Irims stressed that the continent’s energy problem is intensifying, but also expressed confidence that the widespread adoption of renewable energy—by both government and citizens—can reverse the trend.
“The future of energy in Africa is renewable. If both the public and private sectors come together, we can achieve stable, sustainable power for all,” he said.
Through its practical, accessible solutions and focus on local empowerment, WiSolar is positioning itself as a key player in the continent’s shift toward clean energy—offering not just light, but long-term energy independence.