On December 7, 2019, the Nigerian Rural Electrification Agency (REA) supported the commissioning of its first mini grid site to be financed through its Performance-Based Grant program under the World Bank assisted Nigeria Electrification Project (NEP).
The project, which is a 64KWp solar hybrid mini grid in Rokota Community, Edati Local Government Area, Niger State, was constructed by PowerGen Renewable Energy Nigeria Limited. The mini grid will benefit 3,000 people and provide 350 end users with clean, safe, affordable and reliable electricity to improve their quality of life and boost economic activities.
Key speakers at the commissioning included the Hon. Commissioner of Works, Infrastructure and Development, Niger State, Hon. Engr. Ibrahim M. Panti; Minister of State for Power, Mr. Goddy Jedy-Agba; MD/CEO, REA, Mrs. Damilola Ogunbiyi; Nigeria Country Director, World Bank, Mr. Shubham Chaudhuri; Task Team Leader, World Bank, Mr. Jon Exel; Head NEP PMU, Mrs. Adejoke Odumosu; MD, PowerGen Renewable Energy Nigeria Limited, Mr. Alastair Smith and Rokota Village Head, Alhaji Adamu Mohammed Rokota. As beneficiaries of the transformational project, indigenes of Rokota can now use electricity to power their homes, health facilities and operate small businesses, which will help catalyse social development and economic growth.
The Nigeria Electrification Project Mini Grid component aims to provide clean, safe and reliable electricity to 300,000 homes and 30,000 local businesses in Nigeria.
