The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing rural electrification through renewable energy projects, as the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) inaugurated a 100kWp Solar Hybrid Mini-Grid in the Uhuafor Nomeh community, located in Enugu State’s Nkanu East Council Area. REA Managing Director Abba Aliyu, represented by the agency’s Executive Director of the Rural Electrification Fund (REF), Doris Uboh, emphasized that the project aligns with the federal government’s dedication to expanding energy access across underserved communities in Nigeria. The new solar installation is set to benefit over 3,000 residents and can potentially power neighboring communities, including Imeama, Amakabi, and Uhuorji.
This clean energy project also supports President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which priorites sustainable development in Nigeria’s energy sector. According to Aliyu, the REF has facilitated the deployment of over 50 Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah, represented by Special Adviser on Power, Mr. Joe Anieke, highlighted that the solar project embodies hope and progress for Enugu’s rural areas, aligning with the state’s agenda to foster green infrastructure and innovation. Mbah expressed gratitude to the REA for addressing energy needs in unserved communities, aiming to make Enugu State a model for energy sustainability in Nigeria. He encouraged the project operators to engage with the Enugu Electricity Regulatory Commission to maintain compliance with state regulations, ensuring the long-term success of this initiative.mini-grids nationwide, extending clean energy access to thousands of Nigerians. He added that solar power is a “catalyst for growth,” aiding communities in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change impacts. The Nomeh project is part of a nationwide push to transition rural communities towards more reliable and eco-friendly power sources.
Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah, represented by Special Adviser on Power, Mr. Joe Anieke, highlighted that the solar project embodies hope and progress for Enugu’s rural areas, aligning with the state’s agenda to foster green infrastructure and innovation. Mbah expressed gratitude to the REA for addressing energy needs in unserved communities, aiming to make Enugu State a model for energy sustainability in Nigeria. He encouraged the project operators to engage with the Enugu Electricity Regulatory Commission to maintain compliance with state regulations, ensuring the long-term success of this initiative.
With 256 solar panels, six inverters, and 26 battery banks, the solar mini-grid was designed and executed by Ochuvus Nigeria Limited, and it features an internet-enabled monitoring device that tracks energy output and consumption in real time. This technology achieves an average daily efficiency of 72%, enough to serve up to 10,000 residents in the region. The data-driven system provides reliable power while fostering growth and supporting local businesses, improving the quality of life for residents and driving economic growth.
Expressing gratitude for the project, Traditional Ruler of Nomeh Untaeze, Lt. Col. Israel Mbah, represented by his spokesperson Mr. Uchenna Anyanwu, shared that electricity access will significantly enhance daily activities for the community. It will provide safer nighttime reading for children, promote local innovation, and reduce dependence on harmful fuel sources like kerosene lamps. Community leaders have pledged to protect the facility to maximize its benefits, seeing this project as a transformative step toward a more empowered and sustainable future for rural Nigeria.
