Electrification agency unveils 440kWp mini-grid in Cross River
The Rural Electrification Agency has commissioned a 440kWp interconnected mini-grid to provide clean energy to the communities of Etomi, Agbokim, Abia, and Bendeghe in Etung Local Government Area of Cross River State.
The project unveiled on Wednesday was implemented under the Interconnected Mini-Grid Acceleration Scheme, and was part of a €9.3m grant initiative funded by the European Union and supported by German Cooperation, aimed at expanding access to sustainable energy for underserved communities.
The mini-grid project is expected to supply reliable electricity to approximately 125,000 people, boosting socio-economic development in these rural communities.
A statement from the agency on Wednesday said the commissioning ceremony was attended by notable dignitaries, including the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Otu, represented by the state’s Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy, Prince Eka Williams.
Other attendees included local government officials, community leaders, and representatives of the project partners.
In his address, Otu praised the project as a transformative initiative for Cross River State.
He emphasised the potential for the mini-grid to improve living standards and create opportunities for economic growth.
“This project not only provides access to sustainable energy but also opens doors to numerous opportunities for growth and development,” he said.
The governor called on the benefiting communities to ensure the project’s sustainability by actively participating in its maintenance and management.
He also urged them to explore ways to expand its reach, including supporting small businesses that can thrive with the new power supply.
Otu reiterated the state government’s commitment to the e-HEART initiative, which focuses on using sustainable energy to improve healthcare, education, and agriculture in rural areas.
The governor stressed the importance of integrating the mini-grid project into this initiative to drive further development in Cross River State.
Otu stated, “This mini-grid project is a landmark achievement for Cross River State. It not only provides 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 Cross River State Government is committed to supporting further initiatives like this, as we work towards ensuring that every community in the state has access to reliable and affordable electricity.”
Also speaking, the Managing Director/CEO of REA, Abba Abubakar Aliyu, who was represented by the Director of the Rural Electrification Fund, Ngozi Chimdi-Ejiogu, expressed gratitude to the European Union, German Cooperation, GIZ, and other stakeholders for their support.
He highlighted the significance of the project in empowering local communities through renewable energy.
“This mini-grid will enhance local economic activities, support small businesses, improve education and healthcare services, and uplift the quality of life for residents,” she said.
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.
The project developer, Darway Coast Limited, expressed pride in the successful implementation of the mini-grid, noting the potential of renewable energy to drive positive change.
The REA reaffirmed its commitment to improving energy access across Nigeria, particularly in rural and underserved communities. By expanding renewable energy solutions such as this mini-grid project, the REA is working to bridge the energy gap, reduce poverty, and contribute to Nigeria’s long-term sustainable development.
