Kwara State solar mini-grid commissioned to power Oke-Oyi community

The Nigerian Federal Government, through the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), has commissioned a 581kWp interconnected solar mini-grid in the Oke-Oyi community of Kwara State. The project includes a 1.4MW battery energy storage system (BESS), allowing for continuous power supply throughout the night.

Developed by Nayo Tropical Technologies Limited, the initiative was supported by the European Union, the German Cooperation via GIZ, and the Nigerian Energy Support Programme (NESP), with additional involvement from UNICEF. The project aims to expand reliable electricity access to approximately 13,000 residents and support local economic growth.

Since its implementation, the mini-grid has facilitated the emergence of various small businesses in Oke-Oyi, including welding shops, grain mills, water companies, and ice-block production. Officials noted that the Interconnected Mini-Grid Acceleration Scheme (IMAS) serves as a model for leveraging public funding to attract private developers and ensure long-term commercial viability without permanent subsidies.