Company Profile
Key Developments
StarTimes Energy has moved into a major renewable-energy expansion programme backed by IFC financing under the DARES platform. IFC's investment reached Invested status on 2 June 2026. The programme is designed to support the construction and operation of up to 95 solar mini-grids totalling 13.1 MW, targeting 131,076 new electricity connections by 2028, alongside a planned rollout of 200,000 solar home systems. The company had already completed its first Nigerian mini-grid in 2024 and had seven mini-grid projects under construction when IFC's project disclosure was prepared.
Key Risks
Execution and deployment risk associated with the large-scale rollout of 95 mini-grids, including construction, operations and maintenance, environmental and social management, and delivery of the targeted connections. IFC classifies the investment Category B – Limited, indicating site-specific environmental and social risks that are considered manageable through mitigation measures
What Happens Next
StarTimes Energy is expected to continue deployment of its DARES-supported renewable-energy programme, including development of solar mini-grids and solar home systems. The company is targeting up to 95 mini-grids and 200,000 solar home systems under its four-year expansion plan.
Commercial Opportunity
The expansion creates potential demand for solar PV equipment, battery storage systems, electrical infrastructure, engineering and construction services, mini-grid installation, operations and maintenance, and related renewable-energy supply-chain services.