REA delivers 100kW hybrid solar mini grid to Edo community

By Tobias Pius

As part of its determination to further push renewable energy solutions as the way forward for bridging the electricity gap in the country, Nigeria’s Rural Electricity Agency (REA) has delivered a 100kW hybrid solar mini-grid to the Adebayo Community in Ovia South East local government of Edo state, in line with the federal government’s Rural Electricity Fund (REF) that aims at offering electricity access to at least 12 communities across the country through solar home systems.

Ahmad Salihijo Ahmad, managing director/chief executive, Rural Electricity Agency (REA), said over 19,000 solar home systems will be deployed to the communities as part of the federal government’s Rural Electrification Fund (REF) designed to promote off-grid electrification and ensure that power is equitably distributed across the country using the data-driven off-grid solution.

At the commissioning of the project, GoddyJeddyAgba, minister of state, power, said electrification was a continuous process and declared an intention to do all that it takes to ensure that massive renewable energy is efficiently utilized and evenly deployed across the country.

“Though the electricity deficit has been an albatross for too long, we are positive that through these off-grid solutions we will electrify rural communities across geographical regions of the country,”Agba said.

He also reiterated the determination of the federal government to work with the legislative arms and critical stakeholders to create policies that will work in favour of renewable energy investments and private participation.

The installed power plant has a total capacity of 100kW, with 294 high-grade solar panels, 72 batteries, 20 street lights and a 27-kilometre distribution cable, which has the potential for uninterrupted 24 hours of power, and in return can create for small businesses an opportunity to spring forth within the community.