Key points
- The Federal Government has launched four solar hybrid mini-grid projects in Rivers State.
- The projects will provide electricity to more than 13,000 homes and businesses.
- The REA says the initiative will improve livelihoods and support economic growth.
- The projects are being implemented under the World Bank-supported DARES Programme.
Main story
The Federal Government has commenced the development of four solar hybrid mini-grid projects in Rivers State that will provide reliable electricity to more than 13,000 homes and businesses across four communities.
The projects, with a combined capacity of 11.9 megawatts peak (MWp), are being implemented by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) under the World Bank-supported Distributed Access through Renewable Energy Scale-up (DARES) Programme.
The beneficiary communities are Bolo/Wakama, Gokana/Khana, Ogu/ChukuAma and Onne.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, represented by Deputy Governor Ngozi Nma Odu, described the projects as a product of collaboration between the Federal Government and the state government. She thanked President Bola Tinubu for extending renewable energy investments to Rivers State under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency, Abba Aliyu, said the projects demonstrate the Federal Government’s commitment to expanding electricity access to underserved communities across the country.
He said the mini-grids would provide clean, reliable and affordable electricity capable of supporting businesses, improving healthcare and education services, creating jobs and raising living standards in the beneficiary communities.
Aliyu noted that Rivers State, long recognised for its contribution to Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, is now positioning itself as a key player in the country’s renewable energy transition.
He disclosed that the REA has already completed 16 renewable energy projects across the state, delivering more than 11.5MW of installed capacity and providing electricity to over 14,300 households and businesses.
He also announced that the agency’s 10.5MW solar hybrid power plant at the University of Port Harcourt has been completed and is awaiting commissioning.
According to him, the new mini-grid projects support the Federal Government’s broader economic agenda by providing the reliable electricity needed to drive industrialisation, enterprise development and inclusive economic growth.
The Amanyanabo of Bolo Kingdom, Acheseinimie Micah Frank, welcomed the initiative, describing it as a transformative project that would stimulate economic activities, improve productivity and support the livelihoods of residents, particularly those engaged in fishing.
The issues
Limited access to reliable electricity continues to constrain economic development in many rural communities. Mini-grids are increasingly being deployed to expand electricity access, support productive activities and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
What’s being said
“Communities that have contributed immensely to Nigeria’s energy security deserve reliable electricity that drives local prosperity.” — Abba Aliyu, Managing Director, Rural Electrification Agency
What’s next
Construction of the four mini-grid projects is expected to proceed under the DARES Programme, bringing electricity to households, businesses and public institutions in the beneficiary communities.
Bottom line
The Rivers mini-grid projects mark another step in Nigeria’s efforts to expand renewable energy access while supporting economic development in underserved communities.
