REA Begins Construction of 48 Mini-Grids Across 19 States to Expand Electricity Access
The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has announced that 48 interconnected mini-grid projects are currently under construction across 19 states as part of the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to improve electricity access in underserved and unserved communities nationwide. The initiative is expected to provide reliable, clean, and affordable power to millions of Nigerians while accelerating rural economic development and supporting the country’s transition toward sustainable energy solutions.
The projects are being implemented under the Nigeria Electrification Project (NEP), a programme supported by the World Bank, the African Development Bank (AfDB), and other development partners. The mini-grids combine renewable energy technologies—primarily solar photovoltaic (PV) systems—with battery storage and, where necessary, backup generation to provide stable electricity to communities that are either completely off the national grid or suffer from unreliable power supply.
According to the REA, the interconnected mini-grids are strategically designed to complement the national electricity distribution network rather than replace it. By integrating with existing distribution infrastructure where possible, the systems will enhance grid reliability, reduce transmission losses, and improve electricity availability in semi-urban and rural areas.
The agency noted that access to reliable electricity will boost productivity for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), improve healthcare delivery through uninterrupted power for hospitals and clinics, enhance educational outcomes by providing electricity to schools, and support agricultural processing businesses that rely on consistent energy. Communities are also expected to benefit from improved security, better telecommunications services, and increased digital connectivity.
The REA further stated that the programme aligns with Nigeria’s commitment to achieving universal electricity access, reducing dependence on diesel and petrol generators, lowering carbon emissions, and promoting clean energy investments. The projects are expected to create thousands of direct and indirect jobs during construction, installation, operation, and maintenance while encouraging private-sector participation in Nigeria’s renewable energy industry.
Energy experts have welcomed the initiative, describing mini-grids as one of the fastest and most cost-effective solutions for addressing Nigeria’s electricity deficit, particularly in remote communities where extending the national grid remains economically challenging. They, however, emphasize that sustained investment, proper maintenance, community engagement, and supportive regulatory policies will be essential to ensure the long-term success and sustainability of the projects.
