Clean technology is poised to revolutionize agriculture and rural development across Nigeria and other developing nations by creating a sustainable, decentralized energy system, according to Dr. Femi Oye, Chief Executive Officer of SMEFUNDS.

Citing the Clean Energy Trade and Emerging Markets Report, Oye noted that emerging economies are rapidly expanding their deployment of renewable energy solutions while strengthening domestic manufacturing of key clean technologies. The report highlights surging exports from China to Asia, Africa, and Latin America — particularly in low-cost solar panels, batteries, and electric vehicles — which are accelerating the shift to clean energy in power generation, storage, and transport.

Speaking on the global rise of green innovation, Oye said the ongoing transition to renewable energy presents Africa with a unique opportunity to merge agricultural productivity with clean technology advancement.

“Clean technology can help create a new energy system for agriculture and rural development across Nigeria and the rest of the world. It is time for Nigeria and other developing countries to support private-sector efforts that integrate solar power with agriculture. This will not only increase farmers’ incomes but also accelerate the energy transition,” he stated.

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Solar Power for Sustainable Agriculture

Oye’s comments follow Vietnam’s launch of its first Agri-PV (agriculture-solar) initiative — a project that aims to combine solar energy production with farming to boost rural incomes and promote sustainable agriculture. The programme plans to develop at least ten pilot agricultural solar plants between 2025 and 2027.

He noted that Nigeria’s solar sector has already experienced exponential growth in recent years, showing strong potential for similar innovations within agricultural systems.

“Integrating solar energy with farming on the same land can deliver substantial economic gains, promote gender equality, and help farmers improve their livelihoods while supporting the country’s clean energy transition,” Oye said.

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Bridging Policy and Innovation Gaps

While agricultural solar farming holds great promise, Oye warned that policy gaps and limited incentives continue to hinder large-scale adoption.

“We must address policy gaps and create incentives for investment in agricultural solar systems,” he emphasized, urging the Federal Government to work closely with private organizations to assess Nigeria’s agricultural solar potential, design strategic development frameworks, and provide advisory services to stakeholders.

He also highlighted ongoing efforts by manufacturers to reduce the cost of renewable technologies, including batteries and photovoltaic panels, as global demand continues to surge.

“Demand for clean technologies keeps skyrocketing as more countries recognize their benefits — from low-cost power to affordable electric vehicles,” he said.

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Clean Tech: The Future of Agricultural Energy

According to Oye, emerging clean technologies are redefining the energy landscape in agriculture, driving efficiency and resilience.

“Electrotech is becoming the foundation for a new kind of agricultural energy system,” he explained. “With continued cost reductions in solar-powered cookers, irrigation pumps, and other devices, we are seeing faster and broader growth than ever before.”

He concluded that clean technology offers developing nations far more than environmental benefits — it provides a pathway to inclusive economic empowerment.

“Clean technology is not just about sustainability; it’s about creating opportunity, building resilience, and powering the future of rural communities,” Oye affirmed.