The ESMAP-LA programme is a joint WB and IFC initiative, which works as a catalyst to ensure that quality off-grid lighting products are accessible to energy-poor households in several regions of the continent. LA piloted its programme in Kenya and Ghana, and is now working in Tanzania, Ethiopia, and Senegal.
CDKN is supporting LA’s expansion into Nigeria as the largest potential off-grid lighting market in Africa facing a number of policy and market constraints which need to be addressed to allow the market to function.
CDKN funded 3 main components of the programme: Market Intelligence; Policy and Regulatory Support; and Consumer Awareness. Two studies have been undertaken: Consumer Education Market Research Brief by Market Trends Limited and Market Research Brief by IT Power. This helped to lay the groundwork for policy discussions and possible regulatory interventions as well as for designing a LA programme specifically for Nigeria. Following the outcomes of the studies, a consumer awareness campaign will be developed and launched to increase demand for LA approved products. A Lantern Library Programme will be developed for schools to provide LA approved products to students on rotating basis for the purposes of their studies. It is anticipated that this will help to influence key personnel from targeted institutions to agree on the need for changes in facilitating the use and the distribution of high quality lighting solar products in Nigeria.