The Energy Transition Challenge Fund (ETCF) supports private-sector solutions that improve Nigeria’s energy efficiency. It will accelerate Nigeria’s shift to clean and affordable energy. The programme targets enterprises that deliver renewable energy and energy efficiency innovations capable of expanding access, reducing emissions, and strengthening climate resilience. Through competitive grant funding, the fund helps businesses scale efficient energy solutions that align with national energy transition priorities.
About the Energy Transition Challenge Fund
The Energy Transition Challenge Fund is a challenge-based financing programme designed to de-risk private investment in renewable energy and clean technology. It supports enterprises that offer commercially viable solutions while delivering smart environmental and social solutions. The fund focuses on the practical adoption of renewable energy systems, clean cooking technologies, and energy-efficient products across all residential sectors in the country.
By combining grant financing with detailed performance monitoring, the programme encourages innovation, market expansion, and long-term sustainability. It does not just award funding for energy projects; it monitors project ideation and completion. Supported projects contribute to reduced fossil fuel dependence, improved energy access, and job creation within the green economy.
Funding Size
- Typical grant amount: €100,000
- Maximum award: €800,000
- Project duration supported: twelve to twenty-four months
Funding supports capital investments, technology deployments, operational expansions, and project implementation costs.
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Who Can Apply for the Energy Transition Challenge Fund
Eligible organisation types
- Private sector companies registered and operating in Nigeria
- Early-stage and growth-stage enterprises in renewable energy or energy efficiency
- Institutions implementing clean energy solutions with commercial models
Registration or legal documents
- Proof of legal registration in Nigeria
- Evidence of operational history and governance structure
- Audited financial statements covering at least two years
Project focus requirements
- Renewable energy generation, storage, or distribution solutions
- Energy efficiency technologies or clean cooking innovations
- Projects demonstrating commercial viability and scalability
Geographic eligibility
- Projects must operate within Nigeria
- Rural and peri-urban communities receive priority consideration
Sector or thematic focus
- Renewable power systems
- Energy efficiency and low-carbon technologies
- Clean cooking and productive use of energy
- Skills and capacity development for energy transition
Application Process
- Review eligibility criteria and funding priorities
- Develop a concept note outlining innovation, impact, and business model
- Prepare a co-financing plan demonstrating matching funds
- Submit the application within the open call period
- Participate in due diligence and evaluation if shortlisted
- Receive funding decision and implementation guidance
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Required Materials
- Completed application form
- Business and financial plan
- Audited financial statements
- Proof of matching funds commitment
Key Dates
- Â Call for applications opens: November 2025
- Application deadline: January 2026
- Evaluation period: January to February 2026
- Funding decisions announced: March 2026
- Project implementation period: beginning in 2026
Selection Notes
- The fund is highly competitive
- Reviewers prioritise proposals that expand clean energy access, reduce emissions, provide affordable energy, and improve local energy systems
- Organisations not operating in Nigeria, proposals lacking matching funds, and projects without tangible solutions are not eligible
Official Source Of the Energy Transition Challenge Fund
Application Page: https://aecf.submittable.com/submit
