The Renewable Energy Association of Nigeria (REAN) has launched an industry-led investigation into the recent fire at Singer Market in Kano, stressing that the cause of the incident has not yet been officially confirmed.
In a statement on Sunday, REAN’s Communications Director, Oisereime Lloyd-Dietake, said the association was aware of reports linking the blaze to a solar battery system but urged caution against premature conclusions.
“The Renewable Energy Association of Nigeria is aware of reports concerning a recent fire incident that occurred at Singer Market, Kano, which has been speculated to have been linked to an explosion from a solar battery system,” the statement read.
“We are deeply concerned about the incident and extend our sincere thoughts to the individuals, businesses, and families affected. Safety remains paramount in the deployment and operation of renewable energy systems across Nigeria.”
The fire, which erupted on the evening of Saturday, February 14, reportedly began in the Gidan Gilas section of the market and quickly spread through tightly packed shops.
Preliminary reports indicate that more than 1,000 shops were destroyed, with losses estimated at over ₦5 billion. At least seven traders were still missing days after the disaster.
In response, Vice President Kashim Shettima announced a ₦5 billion federal relief package for victims, while governors from the ruling party contributed an additional ₦3 billion to aid recovery.
REAN said the incident comes at a time when solar adoption is rapidly expanding in Nigeria due to unreliable grid power, rising diesel costs, and government efforts to drive energy transition.
The association emphasized that solar power systems, including battery storage, are safe and reliable when properly installed and maintained.
The association added that it had activated its internal incident response mechanism to verify facts, engage technical experts, review compliance with standards, and issue recommendations to prevent future incidents.
“Upon conclusion of the investigation, we will issue a detailed statement of facts and recommend clear preventive measures to mitigate the risk of recurrence,” REAN said, reiterating its commitment to transparency and safety in Nigeria’s renewable energy sector.
Experts warn that without strict adherence to standards, safety lapses could undermine public confidence in renewable energy technologies, which are increasingly deployed in homes, markets, and commercial clusters across the country.
