The European Union (EU) delegation to Nigeria and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) announced on Monday the successful implementation of a solar mini-grid project in the Etomi community of Cross River State, providing a reliable source of electricity for the first time in six years.
The initiative aims to enhance the quality of life for the over 600 households and businesses in the area, which had been suffering from prolonged power outages.
According to an official statement from the EU, the solar project, which generates 119.5 kilowatts of power, marks a significant milestone for the residents of Etomi.
“After six years without electricity, residents of Etomi community in Cross River State now enjoy reliable, clean, and affordable electricity through the European Union-funded solar mini-grid project,” the statement detailed.
This initiative was implemented in collaboration with the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), which specializes in international cooperation for sustainable development.
Inga Stefanowicz, the Head of the Green and Digital Economy Section at the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, emphasized the importance of this project within the broader context of the EU’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions.
She highlighted that the solar grid is being managed under a public-private partnership arrangement to ensure both its sustainability and long-term maintenance.
A private company has been appointed to oversee the operations of the mini-grid in collaboration with the Cross River State Government.
“This project is a vital part of the EU’s Global Gateway initiative, which is designed to promote access to clean, renewable, and affordable energy for Nigerians,” Stefanowicz stated. The initiative aligns with global efforts to combat climate change and enhance energy accessibility in underserved communities.
The solar mini-grid project is expected to significantly improve living conditions in Etomi, where residents previously relied on kerosene lamps and candles for lighting and struggled with the lack of electricity for basic services.
The introduction of a reliable energy source is poised to foster economic growth by supporting local businesses and enabling residents to pursue educational and health-related activities that require consistent power supply.
Local leaders and residents have expressed their gratitude for the EU’s support, recognizing the transformative potential of the solar mini-grid.
Community representative Adamu Mbaka noted, “This project has brought light back into our lives. We can now work, study, and operate our businesses more effectively. The impact is enormous, and we are thankful to the EU and GIZ for making this possible.”
The project is part of a larger trend within Nigeria to diversify energy sources and reduce dependence on fossil fuels, contributing to the country’s broader sustainability goals.
By harnessing solar energy, the EU and its partners are not only addressing immediate power shortages but also paving the way for a cleaner energy future.
As the project progresses, stakeholders are optimistic about its long-term benefits, which include job creation in the renewable energy sector and enhanced resilience against climate change impacts.
The success of the solar mini-grid in Etomi could serve as a model for similar initiatives across Nigeria and other regions facing energy challenges, reinforcing the critical role of international partnerships in advancing sustainable development.
