GEF partners UNDP, REA to build 23 mini-grids

The Global Environment Facility (GEF) has partnered with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Nigeria and Rural Electrification Agency (REA) to build 23 additional mini-grids across six geo-political zones in Nigeria. In a statement, the REA convened the AMP Grant Award Ceremony, signaling the kick off of the development with capacity ranging from 30Kwp […]

The Global Environment Facility (GEF) has partnered with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Nigeria and Rural Electrification Agency (REA) to build 23 additional mini-grids across six geo-political zones in Nigeria.

In a statement, the REA convened the AMP Grant Award Ceremony, signaling the kick off of the development with capacity ranging from 30Kwp to 200Kwp.

“This intervention is designed to impact over 70,000 Nigerians, enabling over 600 productive use connections and over 375 social connections. 18 renewable energy developers have been awarded grant agreements to the tune of $5.91 million.”

“Since its activation, the REA has worked in lockstep with the GEF, the UNDP, the Federal Ministry of Environment and other frontline stakeholders in the energy access ecosystem to develop and strengthen community-centered objectives of the AMP. The GEF-funded AMP has enabled the sector to further x-ray the rural agricultural value chains, while creating a pathway for accelerated, sustainable energy access in last-mile Nigeria.”

It said the AMP’s innovative model further guarantees that public and private stakeholders work in lockstep in their commitment to sustainable energy solutions for agricultural development and food security in Nigeria.

“As a unique initiative, the GEF-funded AMP is set to create a replicable framework that aligns with the nation’s energy transition goals and serves as an exemplar model in sub-Saharan Africa. As the REA advances the Program, mapping out viable communities and exploring business models, it is set to redefine rural electrification in Nigeria.”

While speaking on the REA’s productive and impactful partnership with the GEF and UNDP, the MD/CEO of the Rural Electrification Agency, Abba Abubakar Aliyu explained that “the AMP aligns with the Federal Government’s focus on the optimization of decentralized renewable energy solutions to catalyze growth and unlock opportunities in the agricultural sector”.

He added that the “REA’s focus on energy access for agricultural productivity is deliberate as agriculture remains a central industry that will aid economic growth and inclusion, if well harnessed. Beyond powering homes, the implementation of the AMP will energize businesses, strengthen innovation in the sector, foster job creation, and reduce energy poverty across the country”.

Mr. Stanley Jonah, the GEF Operational Focal Person and Director, PRS, Federal Ministry of Environment while reiterating the transformative impact of the AMP, explained that the completion of the AMP projects will not only enhance the agricultural value chain but impact the quality of lives of rural dwellers”.

He explained that the GEF remains committed to the growth of the energy access ecosystem.

The UNDP Resident Representative, Elsie Attafuah, represented by Muyiwa Odele, Head of Climate Change Unit, UNDP Nigeria, while commending the REA’s project implementation culture explained that the timely delivery of the AMP energy access interventions will catalyze broader opportunities for the private sector and serve as a guide for the over 21 implementing countries in Africa.

With a 48-month timeline, the AMP-funded mini-grids are targeted at catalyzing access to energy efficient, sustainable infrastructure for small-holder farmers in last-mile communities.

The program will enable accelerated increase in the financial viability and promotion scaled-up commercial investment in mini-grids in Nigeria.