The Federal Government has commissioned a new solar-powered mini-grid in Epe, Lagos State, as part of its ongoing efforts to improve electricity supply in underserved communities. The newly completed project has a capacity of 505 kilowatts and is expected to provide stable and reliable power to more than 8,000 residents.
The solar mini-grid is located in the Majoda communities of Eredo in Epe Local Government Area. Beneficiary communities include Odogbawojo, Odoshiwola, Odoayan, Ora, and Ibowon. In addition to unveiling the project, the government also announced plans to develop an extra five-megawatt renewable energy project in the area.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, the Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe, said the project demonstrates the government’s commitment to expanding electricity access through clean and sustainable energy solutions. According to him, reliable electricity is important for improving living conditions, creating jobs, supporting businesses, and encouraging economic growth.
Tegbe praised the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) and its Managing Director, Abba Aliyu, for their efforts in bringing electricity to rural and underserved communities across Nigeria. He noted that the agency has transformed significantly in recent years and is now delivering visible results nationwide.
The minister revealed that more than 1,000 mini-grid projects are currently being developed across Nigeria. He also stated that solar home systems introduced through various government-supported programmes have already provided electricity access to millions of Nigerians.
According to Tegbe, renewable energy projects are not limited to Lagos State. Similar initiatives are being implemented in states such as Niger, Sokoto, and Katsina, showing that Nigeria’s transition to cleaner energy sources is already making progress.
He further explained that the Epe mini-grid is more than just a power generation project. The system combines solar power generation, battery storage facilities, transmission infrastructure, and direct connections to homes and businesses through metering systems. This integrated approach ensures that electricity can be generated, stored, and delivered efficiently to end users.
The minister also thanked international partners, including the European Union, the Government of Germany, and the Nigerian Energy Support Programme, for their support in making the project possible.
Meanwhile, REA Managing Director Abba Aliyu described the project as a major achievement in the agency’s mission to provide reliable electricity to communities that have long struggled with inadequate power supply. He said the project was developed under the Interconnected Mini-Grid Acceleration Scheme, supported by the European Union and Germany.
Aliyu explained that the mini-grid will help homes, businesses, schools, healthcare facilities, and commercial enterprises enjoy a more dependable power supply while reducing reliance on expensive diesel generators.
He also disclosed that the project is only the first phase of a larger plan for Epe. The agency is already working on an additional five-megawatt renewable energy expansion that will support industries, agro-processing businesses, cold-storage facilities, digital enterprises, educational institutions, and other economic activities.
According to Aliyu, similar projects across Nigeria have already improved business performance, created jobs, enhanced security, and boosted local economic development. He stressed that strong partnerships between government agencies, private investors, development partners, financial institutions, and host communities remain essential for achieving universal electricity access across the country.
