Sterling Bank and StarTimes Nigeria have expanded their renewable energy partnership with the launch of Sterling Solar Financing Hubs inside StarTimes retail outlets, aiming to accelerate Nigeria’s transition to clean energy and achieve ₦2 billion in solar financing by the end of 2026.
The initiative builds on an existing collaboration that has already facilitated more than ₦600 million in solar financing transactions over the past year. The new target represents a more than threefold increase and is expected to help thousands of households and small businesses gain access to reliable, affordable and sustainable energy.
Under the arrangement, customers can visit participating StarTimes outlets, choose their preferred solar solution, receive guidance from Sterling Solar Financing Advisors and begin the financing process immediately, subject to the bank’s credit assessment.
Speaking on the partnership, Sterling Bank’s Divisional Head of Renewable Energy and Mobility, Darlington Nwankwo, said the initiative is designed to make clean and reliable energy more accessible by bringing financing directly to customers at the point of purchase.
He noted that the partnership would reduce the burden of high upfront costs, create opportunities for families and businesses, improve livelihoods and support Nigeria’s clean energy future.
The first phase of the rollout begins this July with five Sterling Solar Financing Hubs in Lagos, located in Lekki, Ikeja, Festac, Surulere and Victoria Island. The initiative will expand to 46 StarTimes outlets nationwide before the end of the third quarter of 2026, with plans to reach more than 200 locations across the country.
StarTimes Nigeria Vice President, Eric Xiao, said the partnership is creating a sustainable energy ecosystem by combining the company’s nationwide retail network with Sterling Bank’s financing expertise, making clean energy more affordable and accessible for Nigerian households and businesses.
He added that both organisations remain committed to expanding access to reliable, affordable and smart energy solutions across the country.
As one of Nigeria’s leading financial institutions with a dedicated Renewable Energy division, Sterling Bank said it will continue to bridge financing gaps through strategic partnerships while driving the adoption of clean energy and supporting sustainable development nationwide.
