Page 215 - NEW ENERGIES Beyond Data

A landmark project under the mini-grid component is the interconnected mini-grid in the Toto community,
Nasarawa State. It is the first operational interconnected mini-grid in the programme and Sub-Saharan
Africa. A visit to this community reveals the tremendous impact of the NEP. Remarkably, the programme
achieved its four-year forecast within just six months, necessitating a scale-up. This success is largely due

to the increase in economic activities following the grid’s deployment. We’ve witnessed business expansions,
improvements in healthcare, salary increases, and a reduction in fossil fuel generator usage. We’ve also
seen businesses relocate from grid-supplied border areas to communities with isolated solar hybrid mini-
grid solutions due to the lower cost of doing business.

No doubt, the reliability of power from mini-grids will have both direct and indirect economic impacts,
as sustainable development relies on dependable and affordable power. This will spur job creation, boost

sectors such as agriculture and manufacturing, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and curb rural-urban
migration. By deploying mini-grids in these communities, we have created jobs for engineers, technicians,
and others, thereby improving living standards.

Just observing the NEP’s impact on healthcare, education, and livelihoods in these communities gives me a
great sense of fulfilment. It makes me feel proud of what I do at the NEP.

Overall, NEP’s success has made Nigeria’s energy market more attractive to investors, driving the funding
needed for the transition to cleaner energy. With the upcoming Distribution Access to Renewable Energy

Scale-Up (DARES) programme, I believe that Nigeria is well-positioned to meet its climate change goals.

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