en.Wedoany.com Reported - On July 13, the Nigerian Federal Government will construct four solar hybrid microgrid projects in Rivers State, with a total installed capacity of 11.9 megawatts peak (MWp), expected to provide reliable electricity to at least 13,000 households and businesses, accelerating the goal of achieving universal energy access.
These projects are implemented by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) with support from the World Bank through the Distributed Access through Renewable Energy Scale-up (DARES) program, benefiting communities including Bolo/Wakama, Gokana/Khana, Ogu/ChukuAma, and Onne.
At the groundbreaking ceremony, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara (represented by Deputy Governor Ngozi Nma Odu, Professor) stated that these projects demonstrate efficient collaboration between the federal and Rivers State governments, and expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for bringing the benefits of the "Renewed Hope Agenda" to the people of Rivers State through investment in renewable energy infrastructure.
Dr. Abba Aliyu, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Rural Electrification Agency, noted that these projects reaffirm the federal government's commitment to ensuring no Nigerian community is left behind. The microgrids will provide clean, reliable, and affordable electricity, stimulating commercial activities, strengthening healthcare and education services, creating job opportunities, and improving the livelihoods of beneficiary communities. He added: "For decades, Rivers State has powered Nigeria through its oil and gas resources. Today, it is also positioning itself as a leader in renewable energy. Communities that have contributed immensely to Nigeria's energy security deserve reliable electricity to drive local prosperity."
Dr. Aliyu revealed that the agency has completed 16 renewable energy projects across the state, providing over 11.5 megawatts of installed clean energy capacity and electricity access to more than 14,300 households and businesses. He further announced that the flagship project at the University of Port Harcourt—a 10.5 megawatt solar hybrid power plant, one of Nigeria's largest university renewable energy projects—has been completed and is ready for operation. The new microgrid projects align with President Tinubu's vision of building a $1 trillion economy, where reliable electricity is the foundation for industrialization, enterprise development, and inclusive economic growth.
King Acheseinimie Micah Frank of the Bolo Kingdom praised the federal government, Rivers State government, and the Rural Electrification Agency for bringing the project to his community, calling the initiative transformative, as reliable electricity will unlock new economic opportunities, enhance productivity, and support residents' livelihoods, particularly the large fishing community that drives the local economy.
