The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has achieved a significant milestone in its mission to provide electricity access to underserved rural communities across Nigeria. Through the Nigeria Electrification Project (NEP), the agency has successfully built and commissioned 103 mini-grids, marking a pivotal step towards enhancing energy access for households, micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), as well as public facilities in rural and underserved regions of the country.
Ahmad Salihijo, the Managing Director and CEO of the REA, shared this achievement during the 10th mini-grid virtual roundtable discussion. The NEP, a federal government initiative driven by the private sector, aims to bridge the energy access gap by deploying mini-grids, Solar Home Systems (SHS), captive power plants, and productive use appliances in unserved and underserved areas. These off-grid solutions contribute to economic growth, improved education, and an enhanced quality of life for Nigerians.
Salihijo highlighted the success of the Performance Based Grant (PBG) subcomponent under NEP, which provides grants to qualified developers for the construction and operation of mini-grids in rural communities. This mechanism has attracted private-sector investments in mini-grids, resulting in the completion and commissioning of over 80 mini-grids, connecting approximately 32,000 households, MSMEs, and public facilities.
The Solar Hybrid Mini-grid component has also yielded impressive results, with 46,661 verified connections to households, MSMEs, and public facilities. Another 281,578 connections are currently in progress, further expanding the project’s impact and reach. Salihijo emphasized that each connection made represents progress towards bridging the energy gap and fostering economic development.
Abba Aliyu, the head of the REA project management unit of the NEP, expressed satisfaction with the accomplishment and highlighted the positive impact of the initiative on over 230,000 people across Nigeria. The installation of 5.8 MW of photovoltaic (PV) capacity showcases REA’s commitment to sustainable power solutions through renewable energy sources.
The successful deployment of 103 mini-grids reflects the project’s dedication to creating a brighter and more electrified future for communities throughout Nigeria. Aliyu concluded by stating that the vision is to continue expanding, innovating, and bringing light to every corner of the nation.
