NIGERIA’S RENEWABLE ENERGY FUTURE BRIGHTENS: REA, UNDP, GEF Awards $5.91m Grant To 18 Pioneers

NIGERIA’S RENEWABLE ENERGY FUTURE BRIGHTENS: REA, UNDP, GEF Awards $5.91m Grant To 18 Pioneers

The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has taken significant steps toward executing the Africa Mini-Grids Programme by awarding $5.91 million in grant agreements to 18 renewable energy developers for the establishment of 23 additional mini-grids across six geopolitical zones in Nigeria.

Launched in 2022 and currently operational in 21 countries, the Africa Mini-Grids Programme (AMP) is funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Nigeria.

According to the REA, the initial phase of AMP has prioritized 23 agricultural sites, focusing on various activities such as grain processing, improving energy efficiency in staple food production, enhancing cash crop value, and providing cold storage solutions to mitigate post-harvest losses.

Speaking on the collaboration with GEF and UNDP, REA CEO Abba Abubakar Aliyu emphasized that the AMP aligns with the federal government’s goal of optimizing decentralized renewable energy solutions to stimulate growth, particularly in the agricultural sector.

“REA’s focus on enhancing energy access for agricultural productivity is intentional, as agriculture is a key industry that can foster economic growth and inclusion if properly developed. Beyond powering homes, the AMP will energize businesses, encourage innovation in the sector, create jobs, and reduce energy poverty across the nation,” he stated.

The AMP grant presentation ceremony, held on Friday by the REA, marked the commencement of the development of 23 new mini-grids ranging in capacity from 30Kwp to 200Kwp across the six geopolitical zones.

This initiative is expected to benefit over 70,000 Nigerians by enabling more than 600 productive use connections and 375 social connections.

Stanley Jonah, the GEF Operational Focal Person, reiterated the AMP’s potential impact, stating that the completion of these projects will not only enhance the agricultural value chain but also improve the quality of life for rural residents. He underscored GEF’s commitment to the energy access ecosystem’s growth.

UNDP Resident Representative Elsie Attafuah, represented by Muyiwa Odele from the UNDP Nigeria Climate Change Unit, praised REA’s implementation practices and stated that the timely execution of the AMP will create new opportunities for the private sector and serve as guidance for over 21 implementing countries in Africa.

Bala Tyoden, the AMP Programme Lead, urged the grantees to maintain compliance with standards and transparency in line with REA’s mandate. He affirmed the agency’s commitment to providing efficient and sustainable infrastructure in last-mile communities.

With a timeline of 48 months, the AMP-funded mini-grids aim to catalyze access to energy-efficient and sustainable infrastructure for smallholder farmers in remote communities, promoting increased financial viability and encouraging largescale commercial investment in mini-grids throughout Nigeria.

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