Residents of Etomi, a remote community in Cross River State, Nigeria, now enjoy consistent electricity after six years without power, thanks to a European Union-funded solar mini-grid. The EU delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS confirmed on Monday that the 119.5kW solar project, implemented by GIZ, supplies clean, affordable energy to over 600 households and businesses.
Inga Stefanowicz, Head of the EU’s Green and Digital Economy Section, explained that the project operates under a public-private partnership model, with a private company managing the grid alongside the Cross River State government. As part of the EU’s Global Gateway initiative, the project aims to provide sustainable, renewable energy for Nigerian communities.
Stefanowicz highlighted the economic and social benefits of the project, particularly in cocoa-producing areas where access to reliable power is expected to enhance agricultural productivity. “The provision of reliable, clean, and affordable electricity will boost social and economic development in the region,” she noted.
Cross River State’s Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy, Eka Williams, expressed optimism about the solar grid’s impact on the community. She noted similar projects planned for other communities in Etung Local Government Area, aiming to replicate Etomi’s success in bringing sustainable power to remote areas.
Local residents are already seeing the benefits. John Okpa, a resident, voiced gratitude for the EU’s efforts. “After six years in darkness, we finally have electricity,” he said. Another resident, Precious Jeremiah, who previously relied on a generator for her hair-styling business, noted a significant reduction in costs and improvements in her working conditions. “I can now operate my business without the burden of expensive fuel,” she shared.
