The Federal Government has launched renewable energy projects with a combined capacity of 60.82 megawatts across six states as part of efforts to improve electricity access and reduce reliance on the national grid.

The latest project is a 13.92-megawatt-peak interconnected hybrid solar mini-grid in Yobe State, bringing the total capacity of recently launched projects by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) to 60.82MW.

Earlier projects include a 20MW mini-grid in Egume, Kogi State; an 11.9MWp project in Ogu-Bolo, Rivers State; a 10MW installation in Kofare, Adamawa State; a 3.5MW mini-grid in Ambursa, Kebbi State; and a 1.5MW project in Pankshin, Plateau State.

Supported by the World Bank, the Yobe project will provide cleaner and more reliable electricity through 40 distribution transformers serving major residential and commercial areas. It comprises solar installations in Nguru, Potiskum, Gashua, Rugan Fulani and Waziri Ibrahim Estate in Damaturu.

Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni said the project would strengthen the state’s infrastructure, boost industrial activities and improve agricultural productivity.

REA Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Abba Abubakar Aliyu, said the interconnected hybrid mini-grids are designed to integrate with existing distribution networks while expanding electricity access to underserved communities.

He added that the agency has 14 additional renewable energy projects in the pipeline for Yobe State, expected to add 15.3MWp of capacity and provide about 23,870 new electricity connections to communities, including Jawur Katamma, Federal Polytechnic Damaturu and Dibbwol.