Plateau State to Benefit Significantly from $750 Million Federal Renewable Energy Program

Plateau State is poised to significantly benefit from Nigeria's $750 million renewable energy initiative, with Governor Caleb Mutfwang expressing confidence that the state will become a net electricity exporter within two years. Mutfwang officially launched the construction of a 1.5-megawatt interconnected hybrid solar mini-grid in Pankshin Local Government Area, marking a key step in his administration's strategy to improve electricity access and attract investment.

The project, funded by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) and implemented by MASK Nigeria Limited in partnership with Jos Electricity Distribution Company, is part of a larger national effort to deploy 48 interconnected mini-grids. Governor Mutfwang highlighted the project's potential to end the reliance on generators in Pankshin, thereby fostering business and industrial growth. He also extended gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his administration's support, citing strategic infrastructure investments and the approval of the Mararaban Jama’a–Pankshin–Langtang–Shendam–River Ibi Federal Road project, as well as the upgrade of the Federal College of Education, Pankshin, to a Federal University of Education.

“

Today we are flagging off a life-transforming and economy-changing initiative. When this 1.5 megawatts of electricity is delivered, the era of dependence on generators in Pankshin will gradually come to an end, while businesses and industries will flourish once again.

Mutfwang further revealed that the state government is actively collaborating with the Transmission Company of Nigeria and the Niger Delta Power Holding Company to enhance the state's electricity transmission infrastructure. The administration's ambitious goal is to generate enough power for domestic needs and export surplus electricity within the next two years. With all necessary approvals secured, including the Certificate of Occupancy, the project is anticipated to be completed by year-end. The governor urged local residents, particularly the youth, to ensure the facility's protection against vandalism.

“

Our vision is that within the next two years, Plateau State will not only generate sufficient electricity to meet domestic demand but will also become a net exporter of power.