Nigeria has launched a $750 million renewable energy programme aimed at boosting electricity access through solar mini-grids and off-grid systems, a move expected to attract $1.1 billion in private investment and transform the nation’s energy sector.
The initiative, led by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), plans to deploy 1,350 solar mini-grids across the country, including 250 systems connected to the national grid.
It targets underserved communities, public institutions, and educational facilities, providing a cleaner and more reliable alternative to diesel and petrol generators.
Under the scheme, the Energising Education Programme is delivering electricity to universities and teaching hospitals, while the National Public Sector Solarisation Initiative is equipping government agencies with solar power to reduce dependence on costly generators.
REA Managing Director Abba Aliyu described the programme as a landmark intervention during a visit by a delegation from the National Judicial Institute in Abuja.
He said, “This is the largest publicly funded renewable electricity project in the world. The $750 million investment will catalyse $1.1 billion in private sector funding to deploy 1,350 mini-grids nationwide.
”Africa’s most populous nation has long struggled with unreliable grid power, forcing millions of households and businesses to rely on generators, raising costs and environmental impact.
The decentralised solar initiative is expected to provide faster and cleaner electricity solutions, especially for rural communities where extending the national grid is costly and slow.
The programme also aims to strengthen the existing grid by integrating 250 of the new solar installations directly into the national electricity network, enhancing stability while expanding access.
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