The Federal Government has commissioned a 505-kilowatt solar-powered mini-grid in Epe, Lagos State, while announcing plans to develop an additional five-megawatt renewable energy project to improve electricity supply and support economic growth in the area.
The newly inaugurated facility serves communities in Eredo, Epe Local Government Area, including Odogbawojo, Odoshiwola, Odoayan, Ora, and Ibowon. It is expected to provide reliable electricity to more than 8,000 residents.
Speaking during the inauguration, Minister of Power, , said the project demonstrates the government’s commitment to expanding energy access through decentralized renewable energy solutions. He noted that improved electricity supply would enhance living standards, create employment opportunities, and stimulate local economic activities.
Tegbe praised the efforts of the and its Managing Director, , for advancing rural electrification across the country. According to him, the agency has significantly improved its performance and is now delivering measurable results in communities nationwide.
The minister revealed that more than 1,000 mini-grid projects are currently being developed across Nigeria. He also disclosed that solar home systems deployed under various programmes have extended electricity access to over 3.9 million Nigerians.
He added that similar renewable energy projects are underway in states such as Niger, Sokoto, and Katsina, describing them as evidence that the country’s energy transition is progressing steadily at the community level.
Tegbe acknowledged the support of the European Union, the Government of Germany, and the Nigerian Energy Support Programme in making the Epe project possible. He stressed that the initiative would not only provide electricity but also support businesses, improve healthcare and education services, and create new economic opportunities.
According to the minister, the project integrates solar power generation, battery storage, transmission infrastructure, and household metering, ensuring electricity reaches consumers efficiently.
He assured investors and development partners that the Federal Government would continue to encourage investments in renewable energy and decentralized power infrastructure through supportive policies and partnerships.
In his remarks, Aliyu described the mini-grid as a major step toward expanding energy access and boosting economic activities in underserved communities. He explained that the project was implemented under the Interconnected Mini-Grid Acceleration Scheme, which is funded by the European Union and the German government.
Aliyu said the facility would provide dependable electricity to homes, businesses, and essential public institutions while reducing reliance on diesel-powered generators.
He also announced plans to deploy an additional 5MW of renewable energy capacity in Epe and surrounding commercial clusters. The expansion, he said, is intended to support industries, agro-processing businesses, cold storage facilities, educational institutions, digital enterprises, and other productive sectors.
According to him, renewable energy projects implemented under the programme have already improved electricity reliability, reduced energy costs, increased business productivity, and generated employment opportunities in beneficiary communities.
Aliyu emphasized that the Epe mini-grid highlights the importance of collaboration among government agencies, development partners, private investors, financial institutions, electricity distribution companies, and host communities in achieving wider access to sustainable energy across Nigeria.
