By Stanley Helon
Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has commissioned 50-100 kilowatts of Solar Mini Power grid in Namu community of Quaanpan Local Government Area.
The project is a global rural electrification initiative being undertaken by the Rural Electrification Agency, REA funded by the Global Environment Facility and supported by the United Nations Development Programme, UNDP, held at Namu, Quaanpan Local Government Area.
Commissioning the solar power mini-grid, Governor Caleb Mutfwang stated that the initiative aimed to support rural communities in the state, particularly those involved in agro-allied production, by providing them with access to electricity, thereby boosting agro-business development and enhancing their economic prospects.
Mutfwang expressed gratitude to the development partners for their support, while urging community members, particularly youths, to capitalize on the opportunities presented by the solar power mini-grid to engage in productive ventures.
He emphasized the importance of safeguarding the installed facilities to ensure their sustainability.
Earlier, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, CEO of the Rural Electrification Agency, REA, Dr Abba Aliyu said the project was part of the President’s directive to the agency to ensure that rural communities in the country are provided with an alternative power supply system that will assist especially farmers in rural communities upscale their agro business.
He disclosed that the move was part of the largest renewable energy funded projects in the world with an estimated 750 million dollar initiative as approved by President Tinubu aimed at providing access to renewable energy to over 17.5 million Nigerians with Plateau State expected to benefit from over 40 of the project.
Chairman of Quaanpan Local Government Area, Christopher Maship, appreciated the development partners and the State government for their tireless efforts in ensuring that people in rural communities benefit from such developments for the progress of the state and nation.
In their separate goodwill messages, Project Manager, Project Developer, UNDP Resident Representative, the Paramount traditional ruler amongst others all expressed willingness to support the project with a call on the beneficiaries to ensure maximum use and its protection.
Highpoint of the event was the formal commissioning and inspection of agro-processing units that have been connected to the mini solar powered grid.
Edited by Karen keyen
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