The Federal Government has reaffirmed its dedication to enhancing rural electrification through sustainable energy solutions, as evidenced by a recent project in Enugu State.
The PUNCH reported that during the inauguration of a 100kWp Solar Hybrid Mini Grid in the Uhuafor Nomeh community, the Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency, Abba Aliyu, emphasized the government’s commitment to transformative energy initiatives.
Represented by Doris Uboh, the Executive Director of the Rural Electrification Fund, Aliyu highlighted that this project was funded by the federal government’s REF, designed to bring sustainable electricity to underserved areas.
“The solar power initiative is also in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, as the REA has continued to strengthen collaborative engagements with state governments and deliver energy access solutions across communities nationwide,” Aliyu stated.
He pointed out that the mini grid has the capacity to provide power not just to Nomeh but also to neighboring communities, including Imeama, Amakabi, and Uhuorji.
Aliyu remarked on the significance of electricity access, noting that “one of the critical sectors Tinubu prioritized upon assuming office is the power sector.”
He noted that the REF has successfully deployed over 50 solar mini-grids across Nigeria, supplying clean energy to thousands of citizens.
In recent months, the REA has embarked on a tour of project inaugurations, declaring that “data has proven that sustainable, renewable energy is a leveler and a catalyst for growth.”
He reassured attendees that the government is committed to expanding these initiatives.
Highlighting the urgent need for sustainable energy solutions to combat climate change, Aliyu urged community members to take responsibility for the new facility.
“We therefore urge the men and women of this community to take charge, protect this facility, and utilize it productively to drive this community forward,” he added.
Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah, represented by his Special Adviser on Power, Joe Anieke, echoed the importance of the project, stating it symbolizes hope and empowerment for rural areas in the state.
“This project aligns with my administration’s agenda to foster innovation, improve rural infrastructure, and create a green, energy-sufficient Enugu,” Mbah said.
He expressed gratitude towards the REA for their relentless efforts in bridging the energy gap in Nigeria, particularly in areas lacking sufficient power supply.
“We expect the operators of this project to engage with the Enugu Electricity Regulatory Commission to ensure it operates within the laws and regulations of the state,” he added.
Presenting a technical overview of the project, Ginika Eronini from Ochuvus Nigeria Limited detailed the system’s composition, which includes 256 solar panels, six inverters, and 26 battery banks.
This setup ensures high efficiency and robust energy storage capabilities, with an average daily efficiency of 72%, enough to serve approximately 10,000 residents.
Eronini also mentioned the installation of an internet-enabled monitoring device for real-time tracking of energy production and consumption.
The Traditional Ruler of Nomeh Untaeze, Lt. Col. Israel Mbah, expressed his delight at the inauguration, as conveyed by his spokesperson, Uchenna Anyanwu.
He described the day as pivotal for the community, stating that reliable electricity would empower women in their daily activities and enable men to innovate for the community’s advancement.
“Our children will now be able to read at night using electricity instead of generators with harmful smoke, candles, or kerosene lamps,” he noted.
In closing, the traditional ruler extended his gratitude to the federal government, the REA, and Governor Mbah for the initiative, assuring them that the community would safeguard and effectively utilize the new facility for the benefit of all residents.
