Premier Energies Limited, one of India’s leading integrated solar companies, has announced the securing of USD 19.95 million worth of electrification orders in Benin. The contract, announced on September 29, 2025, also aims to support socio-community development alongside the announced energy access project across the West African state.
The project is being carried out in partnership with Benin’s General Directorate of Energy Planning and Rural Electrification. The directorate operates under Benin’s Ministry of Energy, Water and Mines.
Financing for the initiative is backed by EXIM Bank of India alongside the ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID).
Premier Energies-Benin Solar Order Factsheet
Project Value: USD 19.95 million
Developer: Premier Energies Limited
Client/Partner: Government of Benin, General Directorate of Energy Planning and Rural Electrification
Financing: EXIM Bank of India and ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID)
Project Scope:
- 750 rooftop solar systems
- 4,400 solar streetlights
- 650 solar water heaters
Announcement Date: 29 September 2025
Scope of Work
The orders encompass a mix of distributed renewable energy solutions aimed at improving public services and community resilience. These include:
- 750 rooftop solar installations in police stations, schools, healthcare centers, border posts, and surveillance units
- 4,400 high-efficiency solar streetlights to enhance safety and extend usable hours in key districts
- 650 solar water heaters to provide sustainable hot water supply in public facilities
Strategic Importance of Premier Energies $19.95 Million Solar Electrification Order in Benin
India’s Premier Energies securing the $19.95 million solar electrification order in Benin positions the Indian company as a competitive exporter of renewable energy solutions to Africa. This would be alongside companies like Japan’s
The project also reinforces India’s broader South-South cooperation agenda. It also highlights Benin’s commitment to expanding access to clean, reliable electricity in off-grid and semi-urban areas.
The development also aligns with regional electrification goals and demonstrates how multilateral financing – EXIM Bank’s and EBID’s infrastructure funding – is catalyzing large-scale solar adoption in West Africa.
India’s Renewable Push in Africa
India continues to expand solar cooperation with Africa under the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and bilateral financing lines. This is evidenced by recent projects such as solar electrification in Mali, Niger, and Togo, also funded via EXIM Bank of India credit lines.
Additionally, more Indian companies such as Sterling & Wilson, Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd (BHEL), and now, Premier Energies, are increasing their engagements in West African rural and semi-urban electrification markets.
