Page 214 - NEW ENERGIES Beyond Data

Notwithstanding, significant progress has been made over the past four years with the launch of the
Nigeria Electrification Programme (NEP). This initiative by the federal government, implemented through
the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), has catalysed and nurtured the energy ecosystem, boosting market
confidence and attracting private investors, particularly in the deployment of mini-grids to underserved

and unserved communities.

Mini-grids are all-in-one electrification solutions capable of delivering reliable power similar to conventional
grids. Under the NEP programme, around 158 mini-grids have been commissioned in communities across
Nigeria, many of which were previously unconnected to the national grid, resulting in approximately
120,000 new connections. Community engagement is at the core of what we do at the NEP. We actively
engage with these communities to understand how the grids will enhance their productivity and quality of

life. It is crucial for them to view the project as collaborative rather than exploitative. Community ownership
of these projects is essential, as it ensures the security and sustainability of the grids. Residents are made
aware that for these projects to be sustainable, services must be paid for.

NEP also places a huge emphasis on environmental and social management systems, particularly in grievance
mechanisms. It’s important to have clear pathways for addressing grievances within the community and to
keep residents informed of any changes or updates to their services. We also encourage the formation of
cooperatives or power committees within these communities, which facilitates easier engagement between
developers and residents.

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