United Bank for Africa (UBA) has joined forces with Renewvia Solar Nigeria to introduce solar energy systems in 25 of its branches across five states. The move aims to boost sustainability, cut carbon emissions, and enhance operational efficiency.
The program was officially launched at UBA’s Oba Akran 2 branch in Ikeja, Lagos, with the Norwegian Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Svein Bæra, in attendance. Guests toured the branch’s solar battery and inverter facilities, guided by the Renewvia team.
UBA Group Chairman, Tony Elumelu, reiterated the need to see Africa as a hub of opportunity rather than a recipient of aid. Speaking at the Norway–Africa Business Summit in Oslo, he urged international partners to collaborate through investment and entrepreneurship.
The initiative, supported by Norway’s Empower New Energy and local firm Incremental Energy Solutions (IES), is expected to generate 152,000 kWh of clean energy monthly in its first phase, reducing UBA’s carbon emissions by over 89,000 kilograms of CO₂ each month. A 10-year Power-as-a-Service agreement will see advanced solar and battery systems installed to improve energy reliability and customer service.
When fully deployed, the project will reach 50 branches across 18 states, providing 3 MWp of solar capacity and 7 MWh of energy storage.
UBA’s Deputy Managing Director, Muyiwa Akinyemi, highlighted the bank’s commitment to sustainability, noting that the partnership demonstrates how collaboration and innovation can create lasting benefits, both for the environment and for business operations.
Adebowale Dosunmu, Managing Director of Renewvia Solar Nigeria, called the collaboration a major step in providing reliable, clean energy to businesses in Nigeria. Oladipupo Omodara, CEO of IES, emphasized that the project underscores Africa’s growing role in global energy technology and investment.
Terje Osmundsen, CEO of Empower New Energy, described the project as an example of how Nordic-African partnerships can accelerate access to renewable power while fostering sustainable development.
Ambassador Bæra praised the collaboration as a model of combining African ambition with international support, highlighting its significance for climate responsibility and economic growth.
The project reinforces UBA’s leadership in sustainable banking and aligns with Tony Elumelu’s vision of transforming Africa through entrepreneurship, private sector innovation, and strategic global partnerships.
