Abia Government Pushes for Clean Energy
The Abia State Government announced progress in its electricity market and plans to tap into renewable energy sources. It aims to expand electricity access across the state through sustainable energy solutions. During the Off-Grid Energy Stakeholders Workshop, Commissioner Ikechukwu Monday discussed these plans. The government aims to meet both national and international standards with these energy initiatives.
Engaging Stakeholders for Progress
The workshop gathered personnel from various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to discuss renewable energy regulation frameworks. Commissioner Monday emphasized the importance of creating sustainable energy solutions during the workshop. These energy solutions aim to benefit Abia State and set a national standard. The government seeks to implement off-grid energy development across Nigeria through this initiative. Monday highlighted the goal of positioning Abia as a leader in renewable energy solutions. “We aim to ensure that renewable energy becomes accessible to underserved and unserved citizens of the state,” Monday stated.
Renewable Energy as a Key Promise
Governor Alex Otti’s administration has prioritised the utilisation of renewable energy as part of its campaign promises. Commissioner Monday highlighted that one of the governor’s key commitments was to harness the state’s renewable energy resources to boost electricity access. The Ministry of Power and Public Utilities, in collaboration with international partners, is working on a robust energy policy to achieve these goals.
Alignment with the 2023 Electricity Act
Abia’s move towards renewable energy follows the 2023 Electricity Act, which grants states the authority to regulate their electricity markets. The Commissioner explained that Abia is currently working on its main electricity law, covering power generation, distribution, and metering. The off-grid energy programme, discussed during the workshop, will be an extension of the new electricity law, focusing specifically on mini-grid developments in the state.
International Support for the Programme
The renewable energy initiative has received backing from international bodies, with the International Solar Alliance from India playing a key role in financing the programme. The workshop also featured experts from India and Germany, who provided insights into successful off-grid energy projects globally. Abia is one of the first states in Nigeria to initiate such a comprehensive approach to renewable energy.
Positioning Abia as a Leader in Renewable Energy
Special Adviser to the Governor on Energy, Kachi Etuluo, affirmed that the state is on track to become a leader in renewable energy development. He noted that the efforts being made are part of the state’s larger strategy to create a sustainable energy future, placing Abia at the forefront of Nigeria’s clean energy transition.
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