The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has taken a giant leap forward in addressing Nigeria’s energy access deficit by deploying mini-grids in rural communities. Under the Performance Based Grant (PBG) subcomponent of the Nigeria Electrification Project (NEP), the REA has successfully constructed 103 mini-grids across the country.

During the 10th mini-grid virtual roundtable discussion in Abuja, the Managing Director of the REA, Ahmad Salihijo, highlighted the significance of this initiative in extending electricity access to households, micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), as well as public facilities in underserved regions of Nigeria.

NEP, a private-sector driven federal government initiative, aims to connect unserved and underserved rural communities through various off-grid solutions such as mini-grids, Solar Home Systems (SHS), captive power plants, and productive use appliances. The PBG subcomponent, which provides grants to developers for the construction and operation of mini-grids, has played a crucial role in attracting private-sector investments.

Thanks to NEP, over 80 mini-grids have already been completed and commissioned, benefiting approximately 32,000 households, MSMEs, and public facilities. The Solar Hybrid Mini-grid component has also achieved remarkable success, with 46,661 verified connections made to date. An additional 281,578 connections are currently in progress, further expanding the project’s impact and reach.

Abba Aliyu, the head of the REA project management unit of NEP, expressed satisfaction at the completion of 103 mini-grids, emphasizing the agency’s commitment to providing reliable and sustainable energy solutions to long underserved communities. These mini-grids have positively impacted over 230,000 people, improving their daily routines, economic activities, and overall quality of life.

In a bid to harness renewable energy sources, the REA has successfully installed 5.8 MW of photovoltaic (PV) capacity, demonstrating its dedication to sustainable power solutions. The deployment of 103 mini-grids further solidifies the project’s vision of a brighter and more electrified future for communities across Nigeria.

The REA, established with the goal of bridging Nigeria’s energy access deficit, has made significant strides in achieving its mandate. Through various electrification programs like NEP, the agency is creating lasting impacts by fostering economic growth, improving education, and enhancing the overall quality of life for Nigerians.

With the success of the mini-grid deployment, the REA envisions continued expansion, innovation, and widespread access to electricity, illuminating every corner of the nation.