Indian renewable-energy company will deploy rooftop solar systems, streetlights, and water heaters to enhance energy access and efficiency across urban and rural communities in the West African nation

Premier Energies has won solar contracts worth USD 19.95 million (about Rs 177 crore) in the Republic of Benin, marking a significant step in the West African nation’s efforts to expand reliable and sustainable energy access.

The projects form part of a national programme led by the Government of Benin to extend electrification and strengthen energy resilience in both urban and rural areas. Implementation will be carried out by Premier Energies in partnership with the General Directorate of Energy Planning and Rural Electrification under the Ministry of Energy, Water and Mines.

Under the contracts, the Indian company will install 750 rooftop solar systems at community facilities including police stations, schools, health centres and border surveillance posts. In addition, more than 4,400 high-efficiency solar streetlights and 650 solar water heaters will be deployed in an effort to cut fossil fuel dependence and improve efficiency.

Funding has been arranged through a line of credit provided jointly by the Export-Import Bank of India (Exim Bank) and the ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (Ebid), highlighting the role of international finance in supporting renewable infrastructure.

The programme illustrates the growing alignment of technology, policy and finance in advancing green growth across emerging economies. For Benin, it promises not only greater energy security but also progress towards a lower-carbon future in line with wider regional ambitions.