REA, Lagos govt partner on expansion of renewable energy access

The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) and the Lagos State Government have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to expand access to clean energy in Lagos State, with a focus on powering public institutions through rooftop solar systems.

The agreement, signed during the Lagos State Energy Summit, marks a significant milestone under the REA’s State-by-State Initiative and aligns with the Federal Government’s push to deepen subnational electricity access through the 2023 Electricity Act.

Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, who represented Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu at the event, emphasized the importance of strategic partnerships in tackling energy challenges.

“We have excess power generation, but it’s misdirected and not evenly distributed. This collaboration with REA will help bridge that gap,” the deputy governor said.

ALSO READ: Osun NNPP blasts Ganduje, dismisses Kwankwaso’s purported move to APC

REA’s Managing Director/CEO, Abba Abubakar Aliyu, in his remarks, announced several major projects under the new agreement, including plans for Nigeria’s first floating solar PV plant (8MW) to power Lagos State University.

He also highlighted the upcoming $150 million lithium battery assembly plant at the Lekki Free Trade Zone and the establishment of a renewable energy university to boost local skills and innovation.

He said, “The partnership will also advance the National Public Sector Solarization Initiative (NPSSI) and the Distributed Access through Renewable Energy Scale-up (DARES) program, backed by the World Bank.

“These efforts are designed to empower local developers and build a robust market for Renewable Energy Service Companies (RESCOs) across the country.”