In a recent report from Abuja, Emmanuel Addehin revealed that Abuja Electricity Distribution Plc (AEDC) has teamed up with Husk Power Systems to create what they hope will be the first of several interconnected mini-grids across Nigeria. The goal of this partnership is to integrate solar energy generated from Husk’s mini-grids into AEDC’s network, which is projected to improve service delivery, increase revenue, reduce technical losses, and lower carbon emissions.
Husk has outlined plans for a strong pipeline of over 50 interconnected mini-grids across 10 states in Nigeria. This initiative represents a significant step forward in Husk’s broader partnership with the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) to deploy a total of 250 MW around the region, expanding the renewable energy service company (RESCO) model.
As part of their collaborative initiative, Husk and AEDC have also partnered with the Duduguru community in Nasarawa State, formalizing an agreement to provide sustainable, affordable, and reliable energy to peri-urban commercial and residential customers through interconnected mini-grids.
The upcoming solar-powered mini-grid in Duduguru, situated in the Obi Local Government Area, is expected to deliver an average daily energy supply of 656 kW, serving about 1,000 customers. This customer base will consist of roughly 80% households and 20% micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), along with small factories.
The signing ceremony featured important figures including AEDC’s Acting Managing Director Chijioke Okwuonkenye, Nigeria Country Director Olu Aruike from Husk Power Systems, and Prince Bulus Iwala, the Chief of Duduguru.
This model of interconnected mini-grids emphasizes a three-way partnership among mini-grid developers, Distribution Companies (Discos) like AEDC, and the local communities they aim to serve. In May 2024, Husk and the REA pledged their commitment to deploying 250 MW of Decentralized Renewable Energy (DRE) projects in Nigeria, which will include these interconnected mini-grids. Husk views this initiative as a crucial advancement in enhancing the RESCO model and supporting Nigeria’s efforts to increase the proportion of renewable energy in its grid through resilient and distributed energy infrastructure.
Commenting on this pivotal development, Husk’s Co-Founder and CEO Manoj Sinha remarked, “This is a first step in successfully scaling the RESCO model, not only for all of Nigeria but eventually across Sub-Saharan Africa. It clearly demonstrates how decentralized renewable energy systems empower individuals and businesses to take charge of their energy future.”
