The REA is working with private companies to implement the initiative which will be done in phases. The first phase of project will see  67 communities in Niger; 18 in Cross River, Sokoto, 23 and 13 in Ogun benefitting from the project while others will come afterwards. Suitable mini grid sites were selected in the communities based on data collected through remote geo-spatial studies.  Also, selection of the communities was made by developing a deep understanding of available data.

From the remote data collected, REA explained that a comprehensive community survey and energy audit was carried out to determine the grid connection statuses of the communities; population density; distance to the nearest grid infrastructure; potential of economic activities in relatively high population areas and presence of farming activities and food processing; climatic conditions relating to ambient temperature and level of solar irradiation; and ability and willingness to pay.

It added that by the end of the data collection, off grid communities with high population density and presence of commercial activities as well as their ability and willingness to pay were selected. According to the agency, private companies will be selected through a competitive tender process to install the solar mini grids.

REA stated that these companies have to be legal entities with the capacity to enter into a contract under the laws of Nigeria. They must also be eligible to participate in the competitive tender, it added, noting that project developers will be assessed based on their experience and skill, financial capability, integrity and reputation as well as legal compliance.

“It is intended that the communities will be the beneficiaries of the Nigeria Electrification Project and will host the developers that will invest in min -grids. The local government will support the process of facilitation with the state government to deliver on the practicalities to establish the enabling environment. Communities must adopt a level of partnership for the NEP to succeed.

“The support of the state government is a priority towards community engagement and the ultimate development of the communities. The state provides the necessary support and contributes to the strategic direction of implementing the NEP in the communities. The state government provides access to the established enablers such as the state working group that already has significant experience in delivering similar projects,” REA stated.