In a major boost to rural electrification, the Federal Government of Nigeria, in partnership with the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has launched the Africa Mini-Grids Programme.
The programme, unveiled at a ceremony in Abuja, aims to deploy 23 mini-grids across six geopolitical zones in Nigeria. The mini-grids, with capacities ranging from 30 kWp to 200 kWp, will provide energy-efficient and sustainable infrastructure for small-holder farmers in last-mile communities.
According to the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), the initiative is expected to impact over 70,000 Nigerians, enabling over 600 productive use connections and over 375 social connections.
Eighteen renewable energy developers have been awarded grant agreements totaling $5.91 million to support the development of the mini-grids.
Speaking at the ceremony, Abba Aliyu, Managing Director of the REA, emphasized the significance of the initiative. “The Africa Mini-Grids Programme aligns with the Federal Government’s focus on optimizing decentralized renewable energy solutions to catalyze growth and unlock opportunities in the agricultural sector,” he said.
The programme is expected to provide a reliable and sustainable source of energy for rural communities, empowering them to improve their livelihoods.
