The Federal Government has commenced the construction of four solar hybrid mini-grid projects in Rivers State as part of efforts to expand access to electricity through renewable energy.
The projects, with a combined capacity of 11.9 megawatts peak (MWp), are expected to supply reliable power to about 13,500 households, businesses and public institutions across the Bolo/Wakama, Gokana/Khana, Ogu/ChukuAma and Onne communities.
The initiative is being executed by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) under the Distributed Access through Renewable Energy Scale-up (DARES) Programme with funding support from the World Bank.
Speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, represented by Deputy Governor Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu, described the projects as a reflection of the cooperation between the Federal Government and the state government in expanding access to clean energy. He also appreciated President Bola Tinubu for supporting renewable energy investments in the state.
REA Managing Director, Dr. Abba Aliyu, said the projects demonstrate the government’s commitment to ensuring that communities across the country, regardless of location, have access to reliable electricity.
According to him, the mini-grids will provide affordable and sustainable power that will improve healthcare, education, businesses and other economic activities while creating employment opportunities for residents.
Aliyu noted that Rivers State, long recognised for its contribution to Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, is also emerging as an important player in renewable energy development.
He disclosed that the agency has completed 16 renewable energy projects across the state, providing more than 11.5MW of clean energy and extending electricity access to over 14,300 homes and businesses.
He added that the 10.5MW solar hybrid power plant at the University of Port Harcourt has been completed and is awaiting commissioning, describing it as one of the largest university-based renewable energy projects in the country.
Aliyu said the latest projects align with the Federal Government’s economic growth agenda, stressing that improved electricity supply is essential for industrial development and business expansion.
The Amanyanabo of Bolo Kingdom, His Royal Highness Acheseinimie Micah Frank, welcomed the project, saying it would boost economic activities in the community, particularly for residents engaged in fishing and other local businesses.
During a separate visit by the REA management to the Government House, Governor Fubara praised the agency’s leadership, expressing confidence that Nigeria’s electricity challenges can be addressed through effective leadership, sound policies and sustained investment. He also assured the agency of the state’s continued support for renewable energy projects and other investments.
