- REA says over 1.2 million residents of Benue State without electricity can be served through solar mini-grids.
- The agency has identified thousands of viable sites as it seeks to attract private investment under the Electricity Act 2023.
The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has said solar mini-grids can supply electricity to about 1,207,272 residents of Benue State who currently lack access to power. The agency said the approach will deepen energy access and attract private investment into the state’s electricity market.
REA disclosed this on Wednesday, January 28, during its 24th State-by-State High-Level Roundtable, which it convened with the Benue State Government. The agency said the roundtable supports implementation of the Electricity Act 2023 and the National Electrification Strategy and Implementation Plan.
Meanwhile, the engagement, themed From Strategy to Impact: Accelerating Private Investment in Benue State Renewable Energy Ecosystem, brought together more than 300 participants. Attendees included renewable energy developers, policymakers, financiers, innovators, development partners and community representatives.
REA Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Abba Aliyu presented an assessment of Benue’s electricity market to Governor Hyacinth Alia. He said REA data shows strong potential for solar-powered mini-grid deployment across the state.
Aliyu said the agency identified 3,821 potential mini-grid sites in Benue State. He added that about 651 communities have more than 100 electricity connections, which makes them suitable for private sector-led mini-grid projects.
In addition, he said communities such as Odejo, Mbadede and Gwer rank among the most economically viable locations. He also listed Tarka, Otukpo, Obi, Makurdi and Gboko as attractive investment areas.
Aliyu said the REA uses data-driven analysis to support developers and financiers with bankable information. He added that the roundtable examined pathways for creating a functional state electricity market.
Discussions covered opportunities under the Distributed Access through Renewable Energy Scale-up programme, the National Public Sector Solarisation Initiative, the Rural Electrification Fund and other REA interventions.
The agency also highlighted existing renewable energy projects in Benue State. These include mini-grids, grid extensions, solar irrigation pumps, solar streetlights and solar home systems. The REA said the state must accelerate and scale up these projects.
Furthermore, Aliyu said success will depend on combining REA data with strong state-level support for a business-friendly electricity market.
Governor Hyacinth Alia said Benue State has faced poor electricity access for many years. He said the Electricity Act 2023 offers a pathway to energy independence.
The governor also said his administration is committed to using the new framework to expand access, close energy gaps and attract private investment. He said investor confidence depends on clarity, predictability and efficient project coordination.
Alia praised the REA for its comprehensive energy access data. He assured renewable energy developers and investors of the state’s readiness to support new projects.
The REA said the roundtable marks another milestone in localising federal electricity reforms. The agency added that the process supports private sector participation and sustainable renewable energy development as states take on expanded roles under the Electricity Act 2023.