The launch of a 500KW solar-powered mini-grid in Ibaragun, Ogun State, marks a significant stride towards bridging the energy access gap in Nigeria and promoting sustainable development. This transformative project, a collaborative effort between Darway Coast, All On, and the Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP), aims to provide a reliable and clean energy source for thousands of residents, fostering economic growth and improving overall quality of life. The initiative is funded by All On under its Demand Aggregation for Renewable Technology (DART) program, which focuses on deploying off-grid energy solutions to underserved communities. The Ibaragun mini-grid stands as a testament to the potential of public-private partnerships in driving impactful change within the energy sector.
The Ibaragun mini-grid project goes beyond merely providing electricity; it represents a holistic approach to community development. By supplying stable power, the project is expected to catalyze economic activities, empowering local businesses and creating opportunities for entrepreneurship. Public institutions, such as schools and healthcare facilities, will also benefit from reliable electricity, enhancing the delivery of essential services and improving the quality of life for the entire community. Furthermore, the project promotes environmental sustainability by reducing reliance on fossil fuels and minimizing carbon emissions, contributing to a cleaner and healthier environment for present and future generations.
The collaboration between Darway Coast, All On, and GEAPP highlights the importance of synergistic partnerships in achieving sustainable development goals. Darway Coast, as the project developer, brings technical expertise and on-the-ground implementation capabilities. All On, an impact investing company focused on Nigeria’s off-grid energy sector, provides the crucial financial backing and strategic guidance. GEAPP, a global alliance dedicated to accelerating clean energy transitions, contributes its global expertise and resources to support innovative projects that drive both energy access and climate action. This collaborative framework ensures the project’s success by leveraging the strengths and resources of each partner.
Henry Ureh, the CEO of Darway Coast, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, emphasizing its potential to transform the Ibaragun community. He highlighted the immediate and long-term benefits of access to reliable, clean energy, which will serve as a catalyst for economic growth and improved living standards. Caroline Eboumbou, the CEO of All On, reiterated the organization’s commitment to supporting initiatives that drive economic development, improve livelihoods, and reduce environmental impact. She emphasized All On’s dedication to investing in innovative off-grid solutions that address the energy needs of underserved communities across Nigeria.
Fauzia Okediji, the Manager of Utility Innovation at GEAPP, further underscored the project’s significance, portraying it as a prime example of how collaborative efforts and innovative technologies can effectively address the dual challenges of energy access and climate change. She emphasized the importance of deploying clean energy solutions to achieve sustainable development, highlighting the Ibaragun mini-grid as a model for replicating successful interventions in other communities facing similar energy deficits. The project contributes to GEAPP’s broader mission of accelerating the global transition to clean energy and ensuring a sustainable future for all.
The Ibaragun mini-grid project serves as a beacon of hope for rural communities in Nigeria and beyond, demonstrating the transformative power of clean energy access. By providing a sustainable and reliable power source, the project unlocks opportunities for economic development, improves the quality of essential services, and enhances the overall well-being of the community. The successful implementation of this project provides a compelling case for scaling up similar initiatives across Nigeria and other developing countries, paving the way for a future where clean, affordable energy is accessible to all. The collaborative approach adopted in Ibaragun underscores the importance of partnerships in driving sustainable development and achieving a just and equitable energy transition.
