To bring electricity to rural Nigeria, three previously unserved communities have finally been connected to the power grid through solar hybrid mini-grid systems. For some of these areas, this marks the first time they have ever had access to electricity, breaking a century-long absence of power. The initiative, spearheaded by Nigeria’s Rural Electrification Agency (REA), represents a significant step toward improving the quality of life for residents in remote regions of the country.
Over three days, the REA successfully commissioned solar hybrid mini-grids in Rafinzurfi Village, Oloyan, and Sule-Camp. These installations collectively add 240 kilowatts peak (kWp) of power capacity, bringing light and opportunity to communities that have long been in the dark. The REA’s efforts are part of a broader strategy to power Nigeria one community at a time, focusing on areas that have historically been overlooked by traditional electrification efforts.
The first of these projects was launched on August 17 in Rafinzurfi Village, located in Gwagwalada, Abuja. This community had been without electricity for over 100 years, making the commissioning of a 40kWp solar hybrid mini-grid a historic event. The introduction of electricity is expected to transform daily life for the residents, who have been relying on rudimentary energy sources for generations. The new system not only provides light but also powers small businesses and homes, laying the groundwork for significant socioeconomic development.
Two days later, on August 19, the REA commissioned two additional solar hybrid mini-grids, each with a capacity of 100kWp, in the communities of Oloyan and Sule-Camp in Edo State. Both areas are known for their agricultural activities, particularly palm oil processing, which has been hindered by the lack of reliable electricity. With the new mini-grids in place, these communities can now expect increased productivity and improved economic prospects.
Oloyan, a community deeply involved in agriculture, has been eagerly awaiting access to electricity. The arrival of the solar hybrid mini-grid is set to revolutionize their operations, especially in the processing of oil palm—a key economic activity in the area. The ability to process palm oil with consistent power will likely boost the local economy, providing jobs and increasing income for many families.
Sule-Camp, another agricultural hub in Edo State, has also struggled without electricity since its establishment over 30 years ago. The commissioning of the 100kWp solar hybrid mini-grid here marks the end of a long wait for power. Residents and local businesses alike stand to benefit from the newfound energy source, which will enable them to expand their operations and improve their livelihoods.
The Rural Electrification Agency has been instrumental in these developments, driving the deployment of solar and other renewable energy solutions across Nigeria. Through its Rural Electrification Fund (REF), the agency is working to ensure that no community is left behind in the nation’s electrification efforts. The REF focuses on providing off-grid and on-grid electrification solutions to unserved and underserved areas, with the ultimate goal of improving living standards and fostering economic growth in rural communities.
REA Managing Director and CEO Abba Aliyu highlighted the transformative potential of these projects during the commissioning ceremony in Rafinzurfi Village. He emphasized that electricity is more than just a convenience; it is a catalyst for socioeconomic change. “Beyond the illumination of a vibrant community such as Rafinzurfi, there is no doubt that the men, women, and children in this community will now experience socioeconomic transformation like never before. Electricity is a catalyst, and access to sustainable electricity creates opportunities and possibilities for previously unconnected citizens,” Aliyu said.
