Husk Power Systems’ investments are paying off in Nigeria. The Colorado, USA-based company is providing electricity to an additional 5,000 people and 500 small businesses through new facilities recently commissioned in Nasarawa State in central Nigeria.
These hybrid solar mini-grids are located in Doma and Lafia Local Government Areas (LGA). In Doma, Husk Power is providing electricity to households and businesses in Rukubi, Idadu and Igbabo localities. In Lafia LGA, the company has electrified the communities of Kiguna, Akura and Gidan Buba.
Install 500 solar hybrid mini-grids in 5 years
Husk built the new solar hybrid mini-grids under the Nigeria Electrification Project (NEP) implemented by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) with funding from the World Bank and the African Development Bank (AfDB). Like several other mini-grid providers operating under the NEP, Husk benefits from performance-based grants (PBG).
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This mechanism covers the recently commissioned solar hybrid systems and a seventh to be delivered to Sabon Gida in Lafia LGA in 2022. “The completion of six mini-grids by Husk Power Systems in Nasarawa State is an important step in the development of rural electrification and energy access for all Nigerians,” said Abdullahi A. Sule, Governor of Nasarawa State.
The new installations add to Husk Power’s portfolio, which has already electrified 350 villages in Africa and Asia. In Nigeria, the company, which employs 40 people locally, plans to reach 500 hybrid mini-grids by 2026, with a significant impact expected in rural areas. In addition to electrification, these installations will enable the socio-economic development of localities, creating new jobs.
Jean Marie Takouleu