Firm secures DARES grant to power over 15m households in rural communities

Committed to expanding energy access in rural communities, Baobab+ Nigeria has officially signed a grant agreement under the Distributed Access through Renewable Energy Scale-up (DARES) Project, a $750 million World Bank-funded initiative, implemented by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA).
   
With over 90 million Nigerians lacking access to electricity, the project aims to expand energy access to 17.5 million Nigerians through the deployment of renewable energy solutions, including standalone solar systems and mini-grids.
   
Under the Standalone Solar Systems (SAS) component of DARES, Baobab+ joins seven other companies in rolling out thousands of solar home systems and productive-use appliances, particularly targeting rural and peri-urban areas in Nigeria. The company’s participation marks a significant step forward in the effort to close Nigeria’s energy access gap and empower underserved communities with reliable and affordable electricity.

Speaking during the official grant signing ceremony in Abuja, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Baobab+ Nigeria, Kolawole Osinowo, emphasised the broader impact of the intervention, saying: “We, as developers, and particularly as Baobab+, see this not just about energy access, but about economic development.”
He gave the assurance of using the grant opportunity to close the energy gap that exists in those areas.
   
Osinowo added that Baobab+ Nigeria’s mission under the DARES programme extends beyond technology deployment, stressing that it is a commitment to community transformation, economic inclusion, and environmental sustainability.
   
He noted that through this grant, Baobab+ will deliver life-enhancing solar solutions that support small businesses, healthcare centres, schools, and households across Nigeria.

Join Our Channels