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🇳🇬 Nigeria /Health & Science

Delta to partner REA on solar power for healthcare centres

From The Punch · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources New plan
  • Delta State is in advanced talks with the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) to install large-scale solar power systems in public institutions.
  • The initiative aims to expand access to clean and reliable electricity in primary healthcare centers and other public facilities.
  • The state government emphasizes due diligence and protecting its interests in the partnership, which will operate under an Energy-as-a-Service model.

The Delta State government is actively pursuing a partnership with the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) to deploy extensive solar power projects across the state's public institutions. The initiative focuses on providing clean and reliable electricity to primary healthcare centers and other public facilities, according to Mr. Michael Anoka, the State Commissioner for Energy.

the initiative is expected to expand access to clean and reliable electricity in the public institutions

— Mr. Michael AnokaCommissioner for Energy explaining the goal of the solar power initiative.

A strategic meeting in Asaba reviewed a proposed Collaboration Agreement for renewable energy infrastructure under the Federal Government's Rural Electrification Programme. Commissioner Anoka reaffirmed Delta State's commitment to partnering with federal agencies and development partners on impactful energy projects. However, he stressed that "every agreement must adequately protect the interests of the State and its people," emphasizing that due diligence, accountability, and value for money are paramount.

every agreement must adequately protect the interests of the State and its people.

— Mr. Michael AnokaCommissioner for Energy emphasizing the state's conditions for the partnership.

The renewable energy initiative is designed to complement the state government's existing efforts to improve energy access. Officials anticipate the project will promote clean energy adoption and enhance service delivery in critical sectors. Participants examined the potential impact on healthcare delivery and public services, as well as the state's transition to cleaner energy sources.

Delta State welcomed strategic investments capable of transforming electricity access in critical public institutions.

— Mr. Michael AnokaCommissioner for Energy expressing the state's openness to beneficial energy projects.

Representatives from the Ministry of Justice provided input on the draft agreement, seeking clarification on long-term financial obligations, operational responsibilities, and payment guarantees. REA representatives outlined the financing structure, which involves federal funding and private developers, operating under an Energy-as-a-Service model. The state's primary responsibility will be agreed service payments for operation and maintenance. The REA requested data on electricity consumption and generator expenditure from beneficiary institutions to determine appropriate service charges.

the project would promote clean energy adoption and strengthen service delivery across key sectors.

— Mr. Michael AnokaCommissioner for Energy highlighting the broader benefits of the renewable energy initiative.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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