A new guideline unveiled yesterday in Abuja is set to address safety and reliability concerns surrounding renewable energy deployment in Nigeria, especially interconnected mini-grids.

The Federal Government, through the Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA), with support from Germany and the European Union, launched the regulation titled National Guidelines for Interconnecting Solar Mini-Grids to Distribution Networks.

This comes as sets of advanced solar testing equipment were handed over to NEMSA by the EU and the German Government to support field inspections of solar mini-grid installations. The equipment was procured under the third phase of the Nigerian Energy Support Programme (NESP).

Speaking at the event, the Managing Director of NEMSA, Olusegun Adesayo, said the guidelines provide clear procedures, technical requirements, interconnection models and operational standards for integrating solar mini-grids into distribution networks without compromising grid stability, power quality, system reliability and public safety.

He explained that the framework was designed to reduce uncertainty for investors and developers while strengthening collaboration among distribution companies, mini-grid developers, regulators and other stakeholders.

Adesayo noted that the rapid expansion of interconnected mini-grids across the country had made it imperative to establish uniform standards to ensure safe and efficient integration into the national grid.

He added that the guidelines align with the Electricity Act 2023, existing regulatory frameworks and international standards, and are expected to boost investor confidence and accelerate renewable energy deployment.

Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Massimo De Luca, stressed the importance of maintaining strict technical and operational standards as private sector-led mini-grids continue to expand.

According to him, adherence to standards is critical to ensuring compatibility, reliability and safe operations across the electricity value chain.

“I am pleased to see not only the development of these standards but also the provision of testing equipment that will be deployed in the field as mini-grids are installed,” he said.

De Luca reiterated the EU’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s energy transition agenda through technical assistance, strategic partnerships and investments in sustainable energy solutions.

Also speaking, Head of Development Cooperation at the German Embassy in Nigeria, Dr Karin Jansen, said the guidelines would provide clarity and direction for developers, financiers and investors seeking opportunities in Nigeria’s renewable energy market.

She noted that the framework would promote uniformity while ensuring that interconnected solar mini-grids are developed in line with international best practices.

“Through the Nigerian Energy Support Programme, we have worked closely with government institutions and sector stakeholders to promote policy reforms, capacity development and market-based solutions,” she said.

The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Power, Mahmuda Mamman, while commending NEMSA and its partners, noted that solar mini-grids remain critical to expanding electricity access, particularly in underserved communities.

He said the guidelines would enhance system reliability, reduce regulatory uncertainty and support ongoing power sector reforms aimed at decentralising electricity supply.