The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) on Wednesday officially commissioned a 440kWp interconnected mini-grid in the communities of Etomi, Agbokim, Abia, and Bendeghe in Etung Local Government Area, Cross River State.
The landmark project, implemented under the Interconnected Mini-Grid Acceleration Scheme (IMAS), is part of a €9.3 million in-kind grant initiative funded by the European Union and supported by the German Cooperation.
The initiative aims to accelerate the development of Nigeria’s interconnected mini-grid market and provide clean energy access to approximately 125,000 beneficiaries.
The project will provide reliable, clean, and sustainable energy to these underserved communities, significantly contributing to their socio-economic development.
In addition to powering homes, the 440kWp mini-grid will energize local businesses, schools, and healthcare facilities, providing a foundation for greater economic and social development. The REA is also collaborating with the Cross River State government to explore further opportunities for decentralized energy solutions, including additional mini-grids and solar power systems, to expand energy access throughout the state.
The ceremony was attended by several distinguished dignitaries, including His Excellency, the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Otu, represented by the Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy, Cross River State, Hon. Prince Eka Williams, the Permanent Secretary of Cross River State, the Chairman of Etung Local Government, the District Head, and Community Heads.
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The Governor expressed his deep appreciation for the project, emphasizing its potential to transform the socio-economic landscape of the state. Prince Otu stated, “This mini-grid project is a landmark achievement for Cross River State. It not only provides access to sustainable energy for the communities of Etomi, Agbokim, Abia, and Bendeghe but also opens doors to numerous opportunities for growth and development. The Cross River State Government is committed to supporting further initiatives like this, as we work towards ensuring that every community in the state has access to reliable and affordable electricity.”
He tasked the benefiting communities to scale up this project by actively participating in its maintenance and management, ensuring its long-term sustainability. He emphasized the importance of community ownership, urging local leaders and residents to take responsibility for protecting the infrastructure and preventing any form of vandalism. Prince Otu also encouraged the communities to explore innovative ways to expand the reach of the mini-grid, including the establishment of small businesses that can thrive with reliable power supply.
By doing so, he believes that these communities can fully capitalize on the opportunities the mini-grid offers and become models of self-sufficiency and economic growth in the region.
The Governor assured the residents that the state government would continue to support their efforts and work closely with the REA and other stakeholders to further enhance the project’s impact, with the ultimate goal of improving the overall quality of life for all residents.
He also reaffirmed his commitment to the e-HEART initiative, which aims to leverage sustainable energy to improve vital sectors such as healthcare, education, and agriculture in rural areas. Prince Otu emphasized the importance of integrating the mini-grid project into the e-HEART framework and assured the communities of continued government support to expand energy access and drive long-term development in Cross River State.
The Managing Director/CEO of REA, represented by the Director of the Rural Electrification Fund, Ngozi Chimdi-Ejiogu, expressed heartfelt gratitude to all stakeholders involved in making the project a reality. Special thanks were extended to the German Cooperation, European Union, and GIZ for their financial contributions to the development of the IMAS initiative.
