CEM REPORT, ENERGY | To increase the financial viability and promote scaled-up commercial investment in renewable energy mini-grids. The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has launched the Africa Mini-grids Programme (AMP).
The four-year project is funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Nigeria.
According to the UNDP Resident Representative in Nigeria Mohamed Yahya, the project will close the energy access gap and unlock opportunities for people in Nigeria and across the region.
Speaking at the launch, Yahya, noted that access to reliable, sustainable, affordable energy remains a catalyst to socio-economic development, and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Ahmad Salihijo Ahmad explained that the programme will serve as another catalyst for improved access to sustainable energy.
“This sectoral approach is in line with the agency’s focus on programmes to advance the electrification targets and broader social and economic development objectives of the Federal Government of Nigeria.”
Also, the Executive Director, Rural Electrification Fund (REF), Sanusi Ohiare stated that to enhance the viability of mini-grids and the impact of electrification, the programme will deploy pilot mini-grids to achieve the electrification of rural communities and agricultural value chains.
The GEF Operational Focal Point at the Federal Ministry of Environment, Jonah Stanley, emphasised, in his comments, said the programme was central to issues such as security, climate change, food production and strengthening economies while protecting ecosystems.
