AEDC, NEDC Partner to Roll Out solar Mini-Grids
The Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC), through its subsidiary, the Niger Electricity Distribution Company (NEDC), will collaborate with the Niger Government to deploy solar mini-grids and other renewable energy solutions.
Mr Omede Odekina, Brand Marketing and Corporate Communications, NEDC stated this in a statement in Abuja on Tuesday.
Odekina said that NEDC welcomed the commendable efforts of the Niger government, under the leadership of Gov. Mohammed Bago, to deploy solar mini-grids and renewable energy solutions to previously unserved and underserved communities across the state.
He noted that the initiatives included the provision of reliable 24-hour solar power to over 180 communities that had experienced little or no meaningful electricity supply for more than a decade.
““This also covers the transition of critical public facilities—such as the Government House, hospitals including the General Hospital and IBB Specialist Hospital, the Niger State Water Board, and other Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, to independent solar systems.
“This move represents a significant step forward in addressing long-standing energy access challenges,” he said.
AEDC Managing Director, Mr Chijioke Okwuokenye, added, “We fully support the Niger government’s proactive approach to expanding access to reliable electricity through renewable energy solutions.”
”These efforts complement the national push for decentralised power under the Electricity Act 2023 and demonstrate how collaboration between government, regulators, and licensed operators can accelerate progress for our customers.”he said.
Mr Sam Odekina, Chief Business Officer and Acting Managing Director of NEDC, said that the deployment of solar mini-grids in previously unserved areas aligned perfectly with the company’s shared goal of inclusive electrification.
“As the licensed intrastate distributor under the Niger State Electricity Regulatory Commission (NSERC), NEDC is eager to partner closely with the state government on hybrid solutions and grid integration where feasible.
“The company is also committed to supporting innovative projects that deliver sustainable benefits to residents, businesses, and institutions alike.
”The NEDC fully recognises that these actions align with the decentralised and multi-source electricity framework established by the Electricity Act 2023, the establishment of the NSERC, and the ongoing domestication of relevant regulations within Niger,”he said.
Odekina said that the deployment of solar mini-grids in areas such as Lambata in Gurara Local Government Area was being supported through partnerships, including those with the Rural Electrification Agency and international donors.
He said these complemented national efforts to expand renewable energy access and reduce reliance on traditional grid extensions where they were not yet viable.
According to him, NEDC remains fully committed to working collaboratively with the Niger government, the NSERC, and all relevant stakeholders to deliver reliable, sustainable, and inclusive electricity supply throughout the state.
”This includes exploring opportunities for hybrid grid-renewable solutions, commercially viable grid extensions, seamless integration of mini-grid projects under the NSERC licensing regime.
“And potential public-private partnerships to accelerate electrification and support economic development.
”By building on these positive developments together, NEDC and the Niger government, can ensure even greater benefits for residents, businesses, and institutions.
”Fostering improved livelihoods, enhanced security of supply, industrial growth, and a more resilient energy future for all citizens of the state,” he said
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