REA commissions 440kWp mini-grid in Cross River

The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has commissioned a 440kWp interconnected mini-grid to provide sustainable energy to the communities of Etomi, Agbokim, Abia, and Bendeghe in the Etung Local Government Area, Cross River State.

The project, implemented under the Interconnected Mini-Grid Acceleration Scheme (IMAS), is part of a €9.3 million in-kind grant funded by the European Union and supported by the German Cooperation. The initiative aims to boost Nigeria’s interconnected mini-grid market and expand clean energy access to 125,000 beneficiaries nationwide.

The commissioning ceremony drew high-profile dignitaries, including the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Otu, represented by Hon. Prince Eka Williams, the state’s Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy. Also in attendance were local government officials, community leaders, and representatives from development partners.

In his speech, Governor Otu stressed the project’s transformative impact on the state’s socioeconomic landscape.

“This mini-grid is a landmark achievement for Cross River State. It not only ensures access to reliable and sustainable energy for our people but also creates opportunities for economic growth. We remain committed to supporting initiatives like this to achieve universal electricity access,” he said.

The governor also urged community leaders and residents to take ownership of the infrastructure, ensuring its maintenance and protection against vandalism. He encouraged local entrepreneurs to leverage stable electricity to drive economic activities, particularly in small-scale businesses, education, and healthcare.

The project aligns with the state’s e-HEART initiative, which integrates sustainable energy solutions into vital sectors such as healthcare, education, and agriculture in rural communities.

Speaking on behalf of the REA Managing Director, the Director of the Rural Electrification Fund, Ngozi Chimdi-Ejiogu, applauded the efforts of all stakeholders, including the German Cooperation, European Union, and GIZ, for their financial and technical support. She also commended Darway Coast Limited, the project developer, and Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company (PHEDC) for ensuring smooth integration into the national grid.

“This project is about empowering communities with sustainable energy that drives economic development, enhances education, and improves healthcare services,” she noted.

Darway Coast Limited, the private-sector partner for the mini-grid, reaffirmed its commitment to delivering innovative energy solutions for rural communities.

The organisation noted that the project demonstrates the power of collaboration and innovation, adding that with access to clean and reliable electricity, these communities can now experience social and economic progress.

Similarly, PHEDC stressed the importance of community ownership and accountability, urging residents to protect the infrastructure and maximize its benefits.

The 440kWp interconnected mini-grid is expected to power homes, businesses, schools, and healthcare centers, reducing dependence on polluting energy sources like kerosene, diesel, and firewood.

Traditional leaders, including Ntufm Raphael Ekuri Agbor, expressed gratitude, pledging the community’s commitment to safeguarding the project.

Representing GIZ, Eckhard Heine highlighted the success of the initiative, stating: “This project showcases the potential of public-private partnerships in bridging Nigeria’s energy gap. We are proud to support sustainable energy solutions that improve lives and foster development.”

With the successful completion of this mini-grid, the REA reaffirms its commitment to scaling up rural electrification projects across Nigeria. Through strategic investments in renewable energy, the agency continues to drive socio-economic growth and environmental sustainability, bringing Nigeria closer to its universal electricity access goals.