Nigeria's REA rolls out solar mini‑grids to thousands of homes
The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has begun four solar hybrid mini‑grid projects in Rivers State, delivering reliable electricity to more than 13,492 households, businesses and public institutions. The projects total 11.9 MWp and are backed by the World Bank under the DARES programme, with Rivers State Governor Sir Siminalayi Fubara and Deputy Governor Professor Ngozi Nma Odu attending the groundbreaking ceremony.
At the 2026 Nigeria Oil and Gas Energy Week, REA Managing Director Abba Aliyu announced an aggressive nationwide rollout of interconnected mini‑grids that will add 288 MW of capacity and aim to install 1,000 mini‑grids across the country. The agency is financing the effort through a $750 million public‑private partnership, including a ₦250 billion facility with the International Finance Corporation and loans from local banks.
The Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) has started a 1.7 MWh solar mini‑grid at Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Anambra State. The project, contracted to Trade and Tech International, will supply uninterrupted power to critical academic and administrative facilities, enhancing reliability and reducing operating costs.
In parallel, REA, Young Innovators of Nigeria and the Nigeria Computer Society have launched a steering committee for the 4th Technology Ecosystem Dialogue (TED 2026) and Abuja Tech & Digital Economy Week, scheduled for 25‑27 November. The initiative seeks to integrate renewable energy, smart mobility and digital innovation to shape Nigeria’s future smart cities.