The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has signed two landmark Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with EM-One and Husk Power, respectively, to generate 500 megawatts of renewable energy and electrify rural communities nationwide. This initiative aims to provide electricity access to 23% of the 85 million Nigerians currently without power.
The MoUs will deliver 500MW of renewable energy through mini-grids in unserved and underserved communities, with a focus on peri-urban and rural areas. The mini-grids will target areas with large-scale anchor loads like factories or commercial centers, which will serve as hubs to power surrounding communities.
According to REA Managing Director/CEO Abba Aliyu, these agreements represent a significant step forward in realizing the agency’s vision of providing electricity access to all Nigerians. The partnerships will not only enhance energy access but also stimulate local economies and promote balanced development across Nigeria.
The MoUs also pave the way for the integration of cutting-edge technologies like smart grids and decentralized systems, which will increase grid visibility, optimize power flows, and enable large-scale grid interconnection of renewable energy. This will modernize Nigeria’s energy infrastructure and ensure efficient energy distribution.
The CEO of EM-One, Mir Islam, expressed excitement about the partnership, highlighting the innovative aspects of the project. Husk Power Co-Founder and CEO Manoj Sinha emphasized that the partnership will not only deliver electricity access but also empower communities to thrive through innovative energy solutions.
The REA is a federal government agency dedicated to providing sustainable energy access to Nigerians in underserved and unserved communities. The agency provides electricity in areas not connected to the national grid and also electrifies universities and other public institutions.
In a related development, the REA signed an agreement with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria to energize small businesses and enhance productivity. Additionally, President Bola Tinubu has approved a $750 million World Bank loan for the construction of over 1,200 mini-grids in rural communities across the country.
