Renewable energy: $4m injected into expansion of solar mini-grids in Nigeria
Nigeria is moving forward in its renewable energy initiative with a new investment of $4 million aimed at developing and implementing solar-powered mini-grids in 19 communities across Jigawa and Bauchi states.
The Federal Government aims to enhance its commitment to clean energy through increased investments in solar power as a viable source of electricity. The Energy Transition and Investment Plans (ETIP) predict that Nigeria’s shift toward domestic renewable energy could yield fuel cost savings of approximately $686.8 billion by the year 2060.
However, the success of these projections hinges on the timely delivery of infrastructure, as ETIP targets an installed capacity of 277 gigawatts and aims to establish over 104,000 mini-grids by 2030.
This latest investment is being funded by All On and Energise Africa (EA), who are collaborating to help meet ETIP’s objectives and enhance access to renewable energy across Nigeria. The announcement was made during a press release in Uyo on Monday.
Caroline Eboumbou, Chief Executive Officer of All On, stated that the project aims to provide reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity to households, businesses, and public institutions that currently lack dependable energy access. The $4 million initiative, part of the Demand Aggregation for Renewable Energy Technology (DART) Program, is expected to benefit approximately 100,000 individuals while fostering local business development and reducing reliance on traditional energy sources.
Eboumbou emphasized the importance of decentralized energy infrastructure, particularly in areas like Jigawa and Bauchi, where energy access remains limited. She noted that the deployment of solar-powered mini-grids will offer consistent electricity to residences, schools, healthcare facilities, and small enterprises, thereby creating opportunities for economic growth and enhancing local economies.
“Energy access is not just about connecting communities to electricity; it is about creating the conditions for people and businesses to thrive,” she remarked.
Ray Coyle, CEO of Energise Africa, added that UK investors are contributing to sustainable change in Nigeria by providing clean, reliable power to these communities, thus creating lasting social, economic, and environmental benefits for thousands of individuals.
In a broader context, the Federal Government has also initiated the establishment of a Renewable Asset Management Company (RAMCO) as part of its strategy to promote clean energy alternatives.
