The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has disclosed plans to build over 1,000 mini-grids in off-grid communities through the third grant of its Rural Electrification Fund (REF).
The MD/CEO of REA, Ahmad Salihijo, during a workshop to enlighten bidders for the third call for REF, yesterday in Abuja, said electrification of rural areas through off-grid is to create an enabling environment to facilitate investments in various ways, including access to data, policy support, grants, capacity development, and financing.
“The agency’s goal of providing and increasing energy access to millions of Nigerians through renewable energy is critical if we are to deliver the economic benefits that will spur rural economic growth and development in Nigeria,” he said.
Salihijo noted that testimonies from the commissioning of various REA projects, including REF calls, have proven that renewable energy technology, its economics and business models work.
He, therefore, said it would continue to leverage on off-grid renewable energy potential to transform more rural communities across the country through the REF Call 3.
“We expect that over 1,000 mini-grids will be built in the next few years, in tandem with other REA programmes and initiatives, as well as the recently announced intervention of the president to deploy five million solar-based connections across Nigeria through the Economic Sustainability Plan,” he stated.
On his part, the Deputy Director, REF, Magaji Abdu, said the project has led to the creation of 19,310 home systems and 138,000 homes connected with 16 mini-grids completed.
He said grant to be given to the developers would ensure reduced tariffs for users while they enjoy quality power.
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