BY AKUDORO GLORIA
In a major step towards reducing reliance on harmful energy sources, the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has commissioned a 440 kilowatt peak (kWp) interconnected mini-grid to supply power to four communities in Cross River State.
The benefiting communities from the officially commissioned mini-grid are Etomi, Agbokim, Abia, and Bendeghe, situated within the Etung Local Government Area of the state.
This groundbreaking project, implemented under the Interconnected Mini-Grid Acceleration Scheme (IMAS), forms a segment of a €9.3 million in-kind grant endeavor funded by the European Union and bolstered by the German Cooperation. The initiative aims to accelerate the development of Nigeria’s interconnected mini-grid market and extend clean energy access to approximately 125,000 beneficiaries.
The project promises to deliver reliable, clean, and sustainable energy to these underserved communities, making a substantial contribution to their socioeconomic development.
The Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Otu, represented by the Honorable Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy, Cross River State, Hon. Prince Eka Williams, expressed deep appreciation for the project. He emphasized the project’s potential to transforming the socio-economic landscape of the state.
Prince Otu described the mini-grid project as a landmark achievement for the state, noting that it does not only provide access to sustainable energy for the communities of Etomi, Agbokim, Abia, and Bendeghe but also opens doors to numerous opportunities for growth and development.
The Governor who restated the State Government’s commitment to supporting further initiatives such as this, tasked the benefiting communities to scale up this project by actively participating in its maintenance and management, ensuring its long-term sustainability.
He emphasized the importance of community ownership, urging local leaders and residents to take responsibility for protecting the infrastructure and preventing any form of vandalism.
Prince Otu also encouraged the communities to explore innovative ways to expand the reach of the mini-grid, including the establishment of small businesses that can thrive with reliable power supply, adding that by so doing, the communities can fully capitalize on the opportunities the mini-grid offers and become models of self-sufficiency and economic growth in the region.
He assured the residents that the state government would continue to support their efforts and work closely with the REA and other stakeholders to further enhance the project’s impact, with the ultimate goal of improving the overall quality of life for all residents.
He also reaffirmed his commitment to the e-HEART initiative, which aims to leverage sustainable energy to improve vital sectors such as healthcare, education, and agriculture in rural areas. Prince Otu emphasized the importance of integrating the mini-grid project into the e-HEART framework and assured the communities of continued government support to expand energy access and drive long-term development in Cross River State.
In his speech, the Managing Director/CEO of REA, represented by the Director of the Rural Electrification Fund, Ngozi Chimdi-Ejiogu, commended all stakeholders involved in making the project a reality, and the German Cooperation, European Union, and GIZ for their financial contributions to the development of the IMAS initiative.
Additionally, the MD/CEO praised the efforts of the Executive Director, Rural Electrification Fund Directorate, the Project Lead, and team members, Darway Coast Limited (the Project Developer), and the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company (PHEDC) for ensuring seamless integration into the national grid.
“This project is not just about infrastructure; it’s about empowering the communities of Etomi, Agbokim, Abia, and Bendeghe with the transformative power of sustainable energy. This mini-grid will enhance local economic activities, support small businesses, improve education and healthcare services, and ultimately uplift the quality of life for the residents of these communities”, he stated.
The mini-grid is a major step toward reducing reliance on harmful energy sources like kerosene, diesel, and firewood, offering a renewable energy solution to local households and businesses.
Also, the project developer, Darway Coast Limited, expressed delight in being part of this transformative project, stating that the successful implementation of this mini-grid is a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation.
Mr. Augustine Obinna, a representative from the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company (PHEDC), shared their perspective on the project’s significance. “This project is a perfect example of how partnerships can drive progress. By collaborating with the Rural Electrification Agency, Darway Coast Limited, and other stakeholders, we have been able to provide a solution that not only supplies power but also empowers communities. This mini-grid will support local businesses, enhance education, and improve healthcare services, ultimately creating a brighter future for the residents of these areas.”
Speaking on behalf of local leaders and residents from the four benefiting communities, HRH Ntufm Raphael Ekuri Agbor, who expressed gratitude shared the project’s impact on their lives. He emphasized the need for collective protection of the project equipment to eliminate darkness in the communities.
Representatives from GIZ, Mr. Eckhard Heine, reiterated the company’s dedication to supporting such initiatives, reaffirming that the project is a clear demonstration of what can be achieved when governments, development partners, and local communities work together to address energy access challenges.
The REA revealed that its is also collaborating with the Cross River State government to explore further opportunities for decentralized energy solutions, including additional mini-grids and solar power systems, to expand energy access throughout the state.