The Federal Government has reported significant progress in expanding clean energy access, with the Rural Electrification Fund attracting N5.8 billion in private sector investment. Administered by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), the fund supports sustainable energy development for underserved communities. The update was given during the “REF Call 3 Grant Award Signing Ceremony and Access to Finance Workshop” held in Abuja.
Agreements were signed with 58 companies to deliver solar mini-grids and home systems. REA Managing Director Abba Aliyu, represented by Executive Director Ayoade Adegboyega, said the agency remains focused on impactful, inclusive energy access. The agency’s interventions have led to the deployment of 124 mini-grids, 25,580 solar home systems, and support for over 18,000 micro, small, and medium enterprises. These efforts have resulted in a renewable energy capacity of 16.6 MW, over 26,000 jobs created, and a reduction of 91,720 tons of CO₂ emissions.
Aliyu added that the REF has impacted 183 communities across all 36 states and the FCT, and initiatives such as IMAS and the Global Cleantech Innovation Programme further demonstrate its strategic focus. With REF Call 3, the agency aims to deepen energy penetration in underserved areas, boost economic activity, and empower women-led businesses and agriculture-based enterprises.
Aliyu urged developers to maintain strict adherence to timelines, noting that delays in previous phases have prompted a shift towards more disciplined execution. He emphasized the need for transparency and adherence to technical standards. REF Director Doris Uboh highlighted the programme’s long-term sustainability and compliance with operational guidelines. She explained that REF is built on strong public-private partnerships and focused on reliable electricity for productive and social use.
Uboh stressed that developers are expected to maintain long-term responsibility for the plants, ensuring efficient generation, transmission, distribution, and tariff collection.
Source : https://punchng.com/
