Facing Nigeria’s persistent power supply challenges, Royal Castle Ceramic Company Limited has turned to gas-fired energy to stabilize its operations. The company recently commissioned a 14.8-megawatt gas power plant, developed in partnership with Clarke Energy, to secure a consistent and cost-effective electricity supply for its manufacturing processes.
Speaking on the development, Royal Castle’s Managing Director and CEO, Qian Jin, said the decision was driven by years of unreliable grid power and soaring diesel costs. “Power supply has been a major issue. We’ve faced frequent outages from the national grid, which disrupt production schedules and increase costs,” he stated.
Now fully operational, the gas plant powered by INNIO Jenbacher engine technology provides uninterrupted electricity, reducing production downtime and lowering overall energy expenses. Jin noted that the switch to gas has significantly improved operational efficiency and made the business more sustainable in the long term.
He also highlighted the environmental benefits of the move. As a cleaner-burning fossil fuel, natural gas has allowed the company to reduce its carbon footprint, supporting its sustainability goals and compliance with environmental regulations.
Yiannis Tsantilas, Managing Director of Clarke Energy for Sub-Saharan Africa, said Royal Castle’s investment reflects a growing shift among Nigerian manufacturers toward more reliable and sustainable energy sources. “As the manufacturing sector embraces alternatives like gas, it positions itself for long-term growth and resilience,” he said.
The cost savings from switching to gas have been reinvested into the business. According to Jin, these savings are driving expansion efforts, improving product affordability, and helping the company compete in both local and international markets.
Despite the progress in energy supply, Royal Castle continues to face common operational challenges in Nigeria, including poor road infrastructure, complex regulations, and stiff competition from global brands. Still, Jin expressed confidence in the Nigerian market’s long-term potential.
“While the business environment can be tough, Nigeria remains a promising market for ceramics, thanks to rapid urbanisation and increasing infrastructure development,” he said.
To strengthen its supply chain, the company sources key raw materials like clay and silica locally. It has also secured long-term gas supply contracts with domestic producers, ensuring a steady flow of inputs and supporting the local economy.
With a stable energy base in place, Royal Castle is ramping up production and expanding across Africa. The company is also tailoring product designs for global consumers and participating in international trade exhibitions to grow its export presence.
In sum, the gas-powered plant marks a major milestone in Royal Castle’s journey toward energy self-sufficiency, operational efficiency, and market expansion despite the structural and logistical hurdles faced by many Nigerian manufacturers.
