Plateau govt signs MoU to drive rural solar electrification

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In a significant move to revolutionise energy access in Plateau State, the government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Rural Electrification Agency (REA).

The partnership aims to scale electrification strategies and deploy sustainable solar energy solutions to unserved and underserved rural communities.

The MoU was signed during a roundtable event on rural electrification and the implementation of the National Electrification and Strategy Implementation Plan (NESIP), held at the Transcorp Hilton, Abuja.

Governor Caleb Mutfwang signed on behalf of the Plateau State Government, while Abba Aliyu, Managing Director of REA, represented the agency.

Speaking at the event, Abba Aliyu commended Governor Mutfwang’s visionary leadership and highlighted Plateau State’s potential to attract renewable energy investments.

Aliyu revealed that a renewable energy firm had already expressed interest in investing $150 million in Nigeria, with Plateau poised to benefit significantly.

He further noted the state’s low electricity access despite its vast agricultural potential and pledged REA’s unwavering support in overcoming these challenges.

Governor Mutfwang emphasised Plateau State’s commitment to becoming Nigeria’s industrial hub for renewable energy within the next two years.

He outlined plans to enhance the capacity of NESCO, where the state holds a substantial stake, and assured investors of a favourable business environment free from bureaucratic bottlenecks and security concerns.

“Our administration is ready to provide all necessary approvals, including land allocation and community engagement, to attract investments and boost Plateau’s economy,” the governor said.

He also called on REA to hold future roundtable discussions in Jos, the state capital, to further strengthen partnerships.

The Commissioner for Water Resources and Energy, Bashir Lawandi, reiterated the Governor’s commitment to electrifying rural communities, stressing that reliable electricity is essential for economic growth, improved quality of life, and social equity.

Ponzing Gamde, Managing Director of the Plateau State Energy Corporation, presented a paper highlighting renewable energy opportunities in the state.

He assured investors of Plateau’s readiness to welcome collaborations aimed at lighting up rural communities.

The event attracted key players in the renewable energy sector, including Theophilus Nweke, Managing Director of Cloud Energy; Habiba Ali, CEO/Founder of SOSAI Renewable Energies; and Monica Liang, Project Lead of Lemi Renewable Energy Limited, all of whom expressed strong interest in partnering with the state.