The Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP), along with the Rockefeller Foundation and Ikea Foundation, is launching a $25 million initiative aimed at enhancing solar power in Nigeria. This fund will primarily support a mini-grid program designed to address unreliable electricity supply and boost economic productivity.
GEAPP, formed in 2021, utilizes its Demand Aggregation for Renewable Technology (DART) program to reduce solar equipment costs for developers by pooling their needs. This arrangement can yield savings of up to 30%. Muhammad Wakil, GEAPP’s country delivery lead, noted that the initiative offers grants, loans, and technical assistance to mini-grid developers, aligning with a new government rule that permits mini-grids to operate alongside national grids.
One notable project includes a one-megawatt solar mini-grid in Ogun State, built by Nigerian company Darway Coast, which aims to provide local communities with 24-hour electricity. Currently, communities receive only eight hours of electricity daily from the national grid.
Wakil emphasized the need for thousands of similar projects to eradicate energy poverty in Nigeria. GEAPP plans to initiate pilot projects in regions served by Nigeria’s 11 power distribution companies, with a long-term vision of establishing 10 gigawatts of mini-grids.
Additionally, Fatima Haliru from Ikeja Electric stated the importance of partnerships with mini-grid developers like Darway Coast, rather than viewing them as competitors, highlighting the collaborative approach under the Electricity Act.
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