By Chidi Ugwu
The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has officially commissioned a 440kWp interconnected mini-grid in Etomi, Agbokim, Abia, and Bendeghe communities, Etung Local Government Area, Cross River State.
This project, part of the Interconnected Mini-Grid Acceleration Scheme (IMAS), is funded by a €9.3 million in-kind grant from the European Union and supported by the German Cooperation.
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It aims to provide clean energy to approximately 125,000 beneficiaries, enhancing socio-economic development in these underserved communities.
The ceremony was attended by Governor Bassey Otu, represented by Hon. Prince Eka Williams, and other dignitaries.
The Governor emphasized the project’s potential to transform the state’s socio-economic landscape and encouraged community involvement in its maintenance.
The REA and stakeholders praised the collaboration, highlighting the mini-grid’s role in empowering communities through sustainable energy, supporting local businesses, and improving education and healthcare services
The ceremony was attended by several distinguished dignitaries, including His Excellency, the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Otu, represented by the Honorable Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy, Cross River State, Hon. Prince Eka Williams, the Permanent Secretary of Cross River State, the Chairman of Etung Local Government, the District Head, and Community Heads.
In his address, the Governor expressed his deep appreciation for the project, emphasizing its potential to transform the socio-economic landscape of the state. Prince Otu stated,
“This mini-grid project is a landmark achievement for Cross River State. It not only provides access to sustainable energy for the communities of Etomi, Agbokim, Abia, and Bendeghe but also opens doors to numerous opportunities for growth and development.
“The Cross River State Government is committed to supporting further initiatives like this, as we work towards ensuring that every community in the state has access to reliable and affordable electricity.”
The Governor has tasked the benefiting communities to scale up this project by actively participating in its maintenance and management, ensuring its long-term sustainability. He emphasized the importance of community ownership, urging local leaders and residents to take responsibility for protecting the infrastructure and preventing any form of vandalism. Prince Otu also encouraged the communities to explore innovative ways to expand the reach of the mini-grid, including the establishment of small businesses that can thrive with reliable power supply.
By doing so, he believes that these communities can fully capitalize on the opportunities the mini-grid offers and become models of self-sufficiency and economic growth in the region. The Governor assured the residents that the state government would continue to support their efforts and work closely with the REA and other stakeholders to further enhance the project’s impact, with the ultimate goal of improving the overall quality of life for all residents.
He also reaffirmed his commitment to the e-HEART initiative, which aims to leverage sustainable energy to improve vital sectors such as healthcare, education, and agriculture in rural areas.
Prince Otu emphasized the importance of integrating the mini-grid project into the e-HEART framework and assured the communities of continued government support to expand energy access and drive long-term development in Cross River State.
In his speech, the Managing Director/CEO of REA, represented by the Director of the Rural Electrification Fund, Ngozi Chimdi-Ejiogu, expressed heartfelt gratitude to all stakeholders involved in making the project a reality. Special thanks were extended to the German Cooperation, European Union, and GIZ for their financial contributions to the development of the IMAS initiative.
Additionally, the MD/CEO praised the efforts of the Executive Director, Rural Electrification Fund Directorate, the Project Lead, and team members, Darway Coast Limited (the Project Developer), and the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company (PHEDC) for ensuring seamless integration into the national grid.
The MD/CEO of REA said, “This project is not just about infrastructure; it’s about empowering the communities of Etomi, Agbokim, Abia, and Bendeghe with the transformative power of sustainable energy.
This mini-grid will enhance local economic activities, support small businesses, improve education and healthcare services, and ultimately uplift the quality of life for the residents of these communities.”
The mini-grid is a major step toward reducing reliance on harmful energy sources like kerosene, diesel, and firewood, offering a renewable energy solution to local households and businesses.
Darway Coast Limited, the project developer, expressed their pride in being part of this transformative project:
“We are honored to be involved in bringing sustainable energy solutions to the communities of Etomi, Agbokim, Abia, and Bendeghe.
The successful implementation of this mini-grid is a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation.
At Darway Coast Limited, we believe in the potential of renewable energy to drive positive change, and we are thrilled to have contributed to the development of a solution that will enhance the quality of life in these communities.
This project not only provides reliable electricity but also opens up new opportunities for economic development and social progress.”
Mr. Augustine Obinna, a representative from the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company (PHEDC), also shared their perspective on the project’s significance. “We are proud to have been part of this journey, ensuring the seamless integration of the mini-grid into the national grid,” said the PHEDC representative.
“This project is a perfect example of how partnerships can drive progress. By collaborating with the Rural Electrification Agency, Darway Coast Limited, and other stakeholders, we have been able to provide a solution that not only supplies power but also empowers communities.
This mini-grid will support local businesses, enhance education, and improve healthcare services, ultimately creating a brighter future for the residents of these areas.”
