- The EU and Enugu State Government are investing N4.3 billion to power 25 health facilities in the state with solar microgrid systems under the Nigeria Solar for Health Project.
- The project aims to improve healthcare delivery, reduce carbon emissions, and ensure sustainable power for healthcare centres and SMEs across the state.
A joint report from the World Health Organisation, the World Bank, the International Renewable Energy Agency, and Sustainable Energy for All, released on January 24, 2023, revealed that Nigeria, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, Ethiopia, and Tanzania require about $2.5 billion in investments to accelerate electricity access in health facilities. This highlights the critical need for reliable and sustainable energy in health sectors across these nations, where power shortages have long hindered effective healthcare delivery.
In response to similar challenges, the European Union (EU) and Enugu State Government have committed to investing N4.3 billion to provide solar microgrid energy systems to power 25 health facilities across Enugu State. The project, part of the Nigeria Solar for Health Project (NISHP), is being funded by an N3.3 billion EU grant, with the Enugu State Government contributing N1 billion in counterpart funding.
At the official launch, Tinyan Ogiehor, Senior Stakeholder Engagement Manager for NISHP, explained that the initiative addresses the widespread lack of electricity, particularly in rural areas, which often hampers healthcare services. Enugu is one of five Nigerian states benefiting from this EU-funded project, alongside Plateau, Ogun, Abia, and Akwa Ibom.
Ogiehor noted that the project will electrify 25 health facilities in each state, with five small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and telecom towers powered by solar microgrids. These telecom towers will act as anchor clients, ensuring the project’s long-term sustainability. The EU funding will cover capital expenses, including battery storage, inverters, and technician training, while the state counterpart fund will cover logistics, site preparations, and security.
Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Chidiebere Onyia, emphasised that the project reflects the state’s commitment to ensuring reliable, sustainable power for primary healthcare centres and improving healthcare services for citizens. Mbah also highlighted the environmental benefits, noting that the project will reduce carbon emissions and support the global fight against climate change. The event also included the inauguration of the project steering committee, chaired by the State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Emmanuel Ikechukwu.