Rural Electrification: FG Signs 1,265MW Renewable Energy Agreement

The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with five private developers to deliver 1,265 MW of renewable energy projects across Nigeria.

The deal, signed on July 4, 2024, aims to electrify rural and peri-urban communities, promoting economic growth and improved living standards.

The five developers – A4&T Power Solutions, Eauxwell Nigeria Limited, Skipper Nigeria Limited, Havenhill Synergy Limited, and Privida Power – will develop interconnected mini-grids, isolated mini-grids, commercial and industrial projects, and Power Utility Entities under the Distributed Access through Renewable Energy Scale-up project.

REA Managing Director/CEO Abba Abubakar Aliyu hailed the partnership, in a statement on Thursday stating, “This MoU demonstrates our commitment to rolling out the Renewable Energy Service Companies model, providing developers with a platform to become utility companies and attract investment to deploy mini-grids.”

The High Commissioner of India, G. Balasubramanian, praised the partnership, noting, “This signing will improve bilateral cooperation between India and Nigeria, sharing our experience to develop Nigeria’s energy sector.”

The developers expressed their enthusiasm for the project, with A4&T Power Solutions CEO Ayo Ademilua appreciating REA’s support and ambition.

Privida Power CEO Omo Williams pledged solid support for REA, while Skipper Nigeria Limited Managing Director Ankit Kumar emphasized the impact on Nigerians’ lives.

Eauxwell Nigeria Limited Representative Chibuzo Enwegbara and Havenhill Synergy Managing Director Olusegun Odunaya reiterated their commitment to delivering the projects.

This milestone aligns with Nigeria’s efforts to enhance renewable energy access and reduce energy poverty.

The REA also signed an MoU with Mercy Corps to strengthen electricity cooperatives and ensure sustainable project operations.