REA Inaugurates 550kWp Solar Mini-Grid in Plateau State
The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has launched a 550kWp solar hybrid mini-grid project in Bakin Ciyawa and Kwande communities, Qua’an Pan Local Government Area, Plateau State, bringing sustainable electricity to 3,500 households.
At the inauguration ceremony on Monday, REA disclosed that at least 20,000 communities nationwide still lack electricity access.
€11 Million Grant for Rural Electrification
REA Managing Director, Abba Aliyu, represented by Executive Director Doris Ugoh, highlighted that the interconnected mini-grid projects are part of an €11 million grant from the European Union (EU) and the German government aimed at expanding electricity supply in rural areas.
“For the Bakin Ciyawa and Kwande communities, the completion of this 550kWp interconnected mini-grid is a game-changer. Bakin Ciyawa now has a 390kWp system, and Kwande has a 160kWp system. Together, these systems will provide clean and sustainable electricity to over 3,500 households and countless micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs),” Aliyu stated.
He further explained that over 60% of the project funding came from the EU and the German government, ensuring rural communities benefit from affordable and reliable renewable energy.
Federal Government’s Plan for Rural Electrification
Aliyu outlined the government’s commitment to powering 3,700 communities nationwide through renewable energy projects.
“Under the present administration, we are electrifying 100 communities per state, introducing a total of 370MW of clean energy. The first phase will cover 25 communities per state, benefitting 925 communities and infusing over 92MW of clean energy into our national grid,” he said.
Solar Energy’s Environmental Impact
The solar mini-grid initiative is also expected to reduce carbon emissions by replacing diesel generators and kerosene-powered energy sources.
“The 550kWp system in Bakin Ciyawa and Kwande will cut an estimated 600 tons of CO2 emissions annually—the equivalent of removing 130 cars from the road or planting 15,000 trees each year,” Aliyu emphasized.
Despite these advancements, Aliyu revealed that while 10,000 communities are in line for electrification, over 20,000 communities nationwide remain in darkness.
State Government & International Partners’ Support
Representing Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, Tourism Commissioner Cornelius Doeyok expressed gratitude for the collaboration between REA and the state government.
“A N1.2 billion counterpart fund was allocated to power primary health clinics in rural areas, ensuring critical medical supplies remain viable in the absence of stable electricity,” Doeyok explained.
German Ambassador Dr. Karin Jansin emphasized that over 20,000 residents would benefit from the project, which is expected to boost agriculture, job creation, and local industries.
Community Reactions
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Hubert Isa, a resident, described the project as life-changing.
“This project represents a significant step forward for our communities. It is proof that the Federal Government has not forgotten rural areas. The promise of providing electricity to underserved communities is now a reality,” he said.
The Interconnected Mini-Grid Accelerated Scheme (IMGAS), which facilitated this project, is part of REA’s broader mission to expand Nigeria’s mini-grid market and deliver clean energy solutions to rural communities.