REA, Lagos govt strengthen partnership to expand electricity access
… Launches rooftop solar for public institutions

BY AKUDORO GLORIA

The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) and the Lagos State Government have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to expand access to clean energy in Lagos State, with a focus on powering public institutions through rooftop solar systems.

The signing ceremony took place during the Lagos State Energy Summit on Monday 14th April, 2025 at Oriental Hotel Victoria Island, marking a significant milestone under the REA’s State-by-State Initiative and aligns with the Federal Government’s push to deepen sub-national electricity access through the 2023 Electricity Act.

A statement by the Agency revealed that the new partnership will support the deployment of sustainable, distributed energy solutions across Lagos, addressing the widespread use of over four million diesel generators in the state.

The initiative aims to replace this fragmented energy landscape with reliable, renewable alternatives.

Speaking at the event, Lagos State Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, representing Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, emphasized the importance of strategic partnerships in tackling energy challenges.

“We have excess power generation—but it’s misdirected and not evenly distributed. This collaboration with REA will help bridge that gap,” he said.

REA’s Managing Director/CEO, Abba Abubakar Aliyu, announced several major projects under the new agreement, including plans for Nigeria’s first floating solar PV plant (8MW) to power Lagos State University.

He also highlighted the upcoming $150 million Lithium Battery Assembly Plant at the Lekki Free Trade Zone and the establishment of a Renewable Energy University to boost local skills and innovation.

According to Abba Aliyu, “partnership will also advance the National Public Sector Solarization Initiative (NPSSI) and the Distributed Access through Renewable Energy Scale-up (DARES) program, backed by the World Bank.”

He added that, “this efforts are designed to empower local developers and build a robust market for Renewable Energy Service Companies (RESCOs) across the country.”

The REA expressed commitment to fostering collaboration, local manufacturing, and innovation to drive Nigeria’s clean energy transition and ensure sustainable power access for all.