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๐Ÿ‡ณ๐Ÿ‡ฌ Nigeria /Energy & Infrastructure

FG flags off 13.92MW solar mini-grid project in Yobe

From The Punch · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • The Federal Government has launched a 13.92-megawatt hybrid solar mini-grid project across five locations in Yobe State.
  • The project, supported by the World Bank, aims to improve electricity access, boost businesses, and stimulate economic activity in the region.
  • Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni hailed the initiative as one of the largest of its kind in Northern Nigeria, expecting it to provide reliable power to thousands of households and businesses.

The Federal Government has initiated a significant renewable energy project in Yobe State, flagging off the construction of a 13.92-megawatt peak interconnected hybrid solar mini-grid. This initiative, implemented by the Rural Electrification Agency with World Bank support, is set to enhance electricity access, foster business growth, and stimulate economic activities across five locations in Damaturu, Potiskum, Nguru, and Bade Local Government Areas.

The project includes multiple solar plants with capacities ranging from 1.76MWp to 3.20MWp, alongside the installation of 40 distribution transformers. Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni described the project as a landmark investment for Northern Nigeria, anticipating it will deliver reliable electricity to numerous households, markets, schools, hospitals, and agricultural enterprises.

We have taken all necessary measures to provide a conducive environment for the successful execution of these projects.

โ€” Mai Mala BuniThe Yobe State Governor assured that the state government has created a favorable environment for the project's success.

Governor Buni emphasized that the project aligns with the state's economic development goals and its commitment to diversifying energy sources. He highlighted his administration's previous efforts in rural electrification, including connecting communities affected by insurgency and installing solar streetlights. The governor also noted the state's progress in domesticating the Electricity Act 2023, aiming to create a stronger regulatory framework to attract private investment.

Dr. Abba Abubakar Aliyu, CEO of the Rural Electrification Agency, explained that the hybrid mini-grids are designed to integrate with existing networks, ensuring dependable and affordable electricity. He stated that these projects are expected to reduce energy costs and improve overall power supply in the benefiting communities.

the interconnected hybrid mini-grids were designed to integrate with existing distribution networks to provide reliable and affordable electricity to homes, businesses and public institutions.

โ€” Dr Abba Abubakar AliyuThe CEO of the Rural Electrification Agency explained the technical design and purpose of the mini-grids.
DistantNews Editorial

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