Yemisi Izuora
Smart Energies, has declared expansion of its business from mass deployment clean cooking gas to innovative renewable energy solutions designed to transform access, affordability and sustainability across Nigeria’s energy landscape.
The company is also calling for partnership with government, development agencies, investors and corporate entities to forge strong collaboration in generating the required thrust to scale energy access and adoption.
In its new expansion programme, Smart Energies stated that it has rolled out electric motorcycles, solar-powered charging stations, cooking gas subsidy cards, and new mobile app that put clean and affordable energy at the fingertips of households and communities.
Chief Executive Officer, Dr Yinka Opeke, stated that the company’s business expansion is part of the its growth strategy; adding that Smart Energies is redefining energy access by combining innovation, inclusivity, and social impact.
Dr. Opeke is a disruptive serial entrepreneur and business strategist. And Smart Energies stands out as one of Nigeria’s leading woman-owned indigenous companies in the nation’s energy industry.
The company has been in the frontline of driving government’s penetration programmes for deepening the domestic market for mass deployment of various specifications of gas for cooking, commercial and other purposes.
All the company’s programmes, it can be observed, are designed to enhance easy switch from inefficient traditional energy forms through sponsored programmes that target the less privileged segments of the society.
Under the prevailing business expansion programme, Dr Opeke stated that Smart Energies has incorporated renewable energy and electric vehicles in an innovative business plan that solidly places the company in clean energy pitch.
With the launch of electric motorcycles, she said, Smart Energies is empowering everyday Nigerians, from delivery riders to entrepreneurs, to adopt clean mobility without the barrier of upfront costs.
She explained that the company is prioritizing affordability and flexibility for riders by offering daily, weekly, and monthly rentals, alongside lease-to-own programs spanning three months, six months, and one year.
To consolidate on gains recorded so far in its ongoing campaigns for promotion of cooking gas in Nigerian homes, the company stated that it has now introduced prepaid subsidy cards for cooking gas.
Dr Opeke pointed out that Smart Energies introduced the digital transaction solutions to subsidize cooking gas and allow families access to clean cooking fuel at discounted rates and in an efficient and transparent subsidy deployment process. She added that the subsidy programme was conceived upon recognizing the economic pressures facing households.
“This innovation is critical in preventing communities from reverting to firewood and other harmful fuels due to rising costs. By making clean energy more affordable, Smart Energies is helping protect health, preserve the environment, and ensure energy equity,” she stated.
“Our mission is not just to power homes and businesses; it’s to empower communities,” Dr. Opeke added.
In explaining the company’s position in the clean energy terrain, Dr Opeke stated that Smart Energies operates with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles at its core. She added that the company’s initiatives align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
She pointed at the SDG 7 which advocates for affordable and clean energy; adding that the company is expanding access to clean cooking gas, solar, and EV solutions. She also pointed at SDG 9 which emphasizes industry, innovation, and infrastructure; stating that Smart Energies is building resilient, future-focused infrastructure.
In aligning with SDG 11 which focuses on sustainable cities and communities, she said Smart Energies is enabling smarter, cleaner mobility and urban living. She added that the company is also in compliance with SDG 13 which demands climate action; adding that Smart Energies is helping reduce emissions and supporting Nigeria’s transition to net-zero.
“From the Trash-for-Gas campaign that distributed over 70,000 cooking gas cylinders, to LPG safety training for communities, and now to renewable energy and mobility solutions, Smart Energies consistently places people at the center of its operations.” Dr Opeke stated.
In introducing the company’s digital commercial facilities, Dr Opeke stated that the Smart Energies Mobile App integrates services for clients, drivers, and gas retailers, enabling real-time access to affordable, safe, and clean energy solutions across the 36 states and FCT.
In calling for partnership, Dr Opeke declared that whereas Smart Energies remains committed to driving clean energy solutions in the country through digital transformation, collaboration by partners remains key to achieving sustainable goals.
“Smart Energies is built on collaboration. We know the challenges of market development in the country is greater than one company can sufficiently handle, and that’s why we constantly call on local and international partners to work with us to accelerate sustainable energy adoption,” she stated.
She declared that “the company is actively seeking partnerships with governments, development agencies, investors, and private sector players across Africa and globally to scale energy access and adoption.”
“Energy is the backbone of development. Together, we can create solutions that not only power economies but also uplift lives,” she stated.