- The European Union funded a solar mini-grid project in Etomi, Cross River State, providing electricity to over 600 households after six years without power.
- GIZ implemented the 119.5kW solar grid, which operates under a public-private partnership, ensuring sustainability and ongoing maintenance.
- Residents express gratitude, highlighting improved business conditions and daily life, with local leaders optimistic about the project’s long-term impact on economic development.
The European Union has funded a solar mini-grid project to restore electricity to the Etomi community in Cross River State, ending six years of power outages.
The solar grid generates 119.5kW of electricity and now powers 600 households and businesses. GIZ implemented the project as part of the EU’s Global Gateway initiative. The EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS stated that the solar grid delivers the community clean, reliable, and affordable power.
Inga Stefanowicz, Head of the Green and Digital Economy Section of the EU Delegation, said the project gives residents consistent power for homes and businesses. “We are bringing clean energy to a cocoa-producing community, which will boost their farming and economic activities,” she said.
A public-private partnership manages the mini-grid to ensure its sustainability. A private company oversees daily operations in collaboration with the Cross River State Government.
Eka Williams, Cross River’s Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy, expressed confidence in the mini-grid’s success. “This off-grid system will meet the community’s needs,” she said. Williams also highlighted similar projects in four other Etung Local Government Area communities.
Residents of Etomi welcomed the project. John Okpa, a local, said, “We lost electricity for six years, but the EU brought it back. We are grateful.”
Business owners shared their relief. Precious Jeremiah, a hair stylist, relied on a generator for seven years. “Fueling and maintaining the generator drained my income. Now, my shop stays cool and clean without the noise and smoke,” she said.
Jeremiah added that solar power would allow her to save money. “I can now cover household expenses, including my children’s school fees.”
The EU’s solar project will drive social and economic development in Etomi. Reliable electricity will improve daily life and support local industries, especially cocoa farming. Stefanowicz emphasised the EU’s commitment to promoting renewable energy in Nigeria, helping communities shift to clean power.
The Cross River Government remains optimistic about the project’s long-term benefits. Williams acknowledged Governor Bassey Otu’s partnership with the EU to bring the project to life. “This is a step towards sustainable development for Etomi’s people,” she said.
The EU aims to expand off-grid systems across rural areas, enhancing energy access and contributing to Nigeria’s energy goals. The Etomi solar mini-grid stands as a model for future projects, showing how international partnerships can create lasting change for underserved communities.
Residents hope for continued maintenance and expansion to cover more areas, further boosting the region’s development.