Commissioning of 990kWp Solar Mini-Grid Project in Niger State

Chief Adebayo Adelabu has launched a 990kWp solar hybrid mini-grid project in Niger State, targeting Bands D and E, which will serve approximately 3,500 households and small businesses. The REA CEO highlighted efforts to ensure reliability in lower bands and mentioned plans for additional interconnected mini-grids funded through international financing.

The Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, has inaugurated a 990kWp solar hybrid mini-grid project aimed at providing consistent electricity to consumers in Bands D and E of the Lambata Community in the Gurara Local Government Area of Niger State. This initiative is expected to benefit around 3,500 households, including local small-scale businesses.

During the commissioning event, Abba Aliyu, CEO of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), praised the Minister’s commitment to enhancing electricity generation across different bands while ensuring reliable service for the lower bands. He stated, “The purpose of this project is aligned with the Minister’s strategy to enhance reliability for Bands D and E. While the Minister is focused on boosting generation for Bands A, B, and C, we are also working from the ground up to ensure reliability for Bands D and E.”

Aliyu noted that this mini-grid project is part of a broader plan to establish 40 interconnected mini-grids in collaboration with seven distribution companies. He also mentioned that discussions during the Minister’s recent trip to Japan have facilitated potential financing of $200 million to fund the deployment of an additional 100 interconnected mini-grids throughout Nigeria.

Minister Adelabu reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to the project’s long-term sustainability, emphasizing the REA’s dedication to developing the capacity needed for ongoing maintenance of these energy systems.

In summary, the commissioning of the 990kWp solar hybrid mini-grid represents a significant advancement in providing reliable electricity to underserved areas in Niger State. With benefits extending to thousands of households and small industries, this initiative aligns with broader government efforts to enhance energy access and sustainability. The partnership with distribution companies and international financing reflects a strategic approach to improve power infrastructure in Nigeria.

Original Source: www.tv360nigeria.com