The Edo State Government has issued a three megawatt (MW) mini-grid generation licence to Halimatu Hospital Limited while reaffirming its commitment to the delivery of a proposed 100MW Independent Power Plant (IPP) in Ologbo as part of efforts to expand electricity access in the state.

The Commissioner for Power, Paul Usenbo, said both projects align with the vision of Monday Okpebholo’s administration to strengthen infrastructure, attract private investment, improve healthcare delivery and support industrial development.

The commissioner said the 3MW mini-grid project, located in Okpella in Etsako East Local Government, would provide reliable electricity to Halimatu Hospital and extend power supply to about 200 households and small businesses in the surrounding communities.

Usenbo noted that the project was being implemented under the Edo State Electricity Law 2025 (as amended), which provides a framework for electricity generation, distribution, licensing and investment within the state.

Receiving the licence on behalf of Halimatu Hospital, Jonah Giwa commended the state government for creating an enabling environment for private-sector participation in the energy sector.

He pledged the organisation’s commitment to delivering the project in line with the best technical and sustainability standards.

“We commend the Edo State Government for creating an enabling environment for private-sector participation in the energy sector. We remain committed to delivering this project in line with best technical and sustainability standards,” Giwa said.

Meanwhile, during an inspection of the proposed 100MW IPP at Taihu Industrial Park, Ologbo, the commissioner expressed satisfaction with the progress of work and reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring the timely delivery of the project.

He said the power plant, when completed, would significantly improve electricity supply, support industrialisation, create jobs and strengthen the state’s position as a preferred investment destination.

“The completion of this project will significantly boost electricity supply, support industrialisation, create jobs and further strengthen Edo State’s position as a preferred destination for investment,” Usenbo stated.

The Permanent Secretary, Dr Stephen Uyiekpen, explained that the inspection was part of ongoing project monitoring efforts aimed at assessing the level of work completed, addressing implementation challenges and ensuring critical milestones are achieved within set timelines.

Uyiekpen said continuous monitoring was necessary to evaluate progress on the project and ensure that implementation remains on track.

Also speaking during the inspection, the Operations Manager, Luke Lee, disclosed that the first phase of the power plant project is expected to be completed by the third quarter.