Nigeria expands solar mini-grid projects in Gombe and Oyo

The Nigerian Federal Government, through the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), has launched several renewable energy projects to expand electricity access in Gombe and Oyo states.

In Gombe State, a 1MW solar mini-grid with a 2.4MWh battery storage system was commissioned in the Talasse community of Balanga Local Government Area, ending a 17-year blackout for over 6,000 households and businesses. The project includes productive-use equipment such as electric rice mills, groundnut oil processing plants, and electric tricycles to support the local agricultural economy. Additionally, construction has begun on a 16MW network of four interconnected solar mini-grids serving the Dukku, Bajoga, Kumo, and Kaltungo communities.

In Oyo State, the government has commenced development of 17.7MW of interconnected mini-grid projects in Ibadan. These projects aim to reduce business dependence on petrol and diesel generators by providing more reliable power to five communities: Bola, Jiboye, Molade-Adelubi, Ogo-Oluwa, and Sooko-Elega. The initiative includes a 17.74MWh battery energy storage system and targets at least 20 hours of daily electricity supply to support manufacturers, traders, and artisans.