The European Union (EU) has funded a transformative solar mini-grid project for the Etomi community in Cross River State, Nigeria, restoring electricity after six years of darkness. The solar mini-grid, with a capacity of 119.5kW, now powers over 600 households and businesses, marking a major shift toward reliable, clean, and affordable energy in the community.
The project, implemented by the German development agency GIZ under the EU’s Global Gateway initiative, represents a public-private partnership involving a private operator and the Cross River State Government to ensure the grid’s sustainability. Inga Stefanowicz, Head of the Green and Digital Economy Section for the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, emphasized that this initiative will drive social and economic progress, especially for Etomi’s cocoa farmers, by facilitating more efficient farming operations and local businesses.
Expressing gratitude, the Cross River State Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy, Eka Williams, highlighted that similar solar installations are planned for additional communities in Etung Local Government Area, amplifying the impact of clean energy in the region.
Etomi residents have already noticed the benefits. Local resident Precious Jeremiah, a hair stylist, shared that she previously relied on a costly and maintenance-heavy generator to run her business. With the solar mini-grid, she now operates without smoke or noise pollution, and her improved profits allow her to support her family and afford her children’s education.
John Okpa, another resident, voiced the community’s appreciation, acknowledging the significant improvement in their quality of life and expressing gratitude for the EU’s support.
CREDIT: Allneeds, THE PUNCH
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