The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has completed and commissioned a 100kWp solar mini-grid in Damau, a rural community in Kubau Local Government Area of Kaduna State, marking another milestone in the Federal Government’s drive to expand sustainable energy access and stimulate socio-economic development in underserved communities across Nigeria.
The Damau mini-grid, delivered through the Federal Government’s Capital Subvention, is part of a broader portfolio of renewable energy infrastructure projects being implemented by the REA. Under the Agency’s 2024 Capital Projects—currently nearing completion—39 new mini-grids are being added to Nigeria’s growing clean energy assets.
For the more than 2,500 residents of Damau, the benefits are already evident. In line with the REA’s impact-driven strategy, the 100kWp facility is supplying reliable electricity to households, small businesses and public facilities, while also enabling a critical social intervention: the electrification of a solar-powered submersible borehole with adequate storage capacity. The borehole now provides clean and potable water to the community, significantly easing water scarcity—especially for women and children who previously travelled long distances to access water. With stable power supply, water is now available consistently, safely and sustainably.
In recent years, the REA has strengthened its deployment strategy under the Federal Government’s Capital Projects by prioritising renewable energy solutions and productive-use anchor loads. This shift goes beyond traditional grid extension projects typically supported through capital subvention, enabling the Agency to optimise federal resources while delivering economically viable and sustainable energy infrastructure with greater socio-economic impact.
Speaking at the commissioning of the Damau project, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the REA, Abba Abubakar Aliyu, said the intervention reflects the Agency’s evolving approach to rural electrification. “The Damau project demonstrates our commitment to integrating energy access with social infrastructure and community needs, rather than deploying power in isolation,” he said.
According to him, the Federal Government’s ongoing energy access scale-up illustrates how decentralised renewable energy solutions can transform rural communities. He also emphasised the critical role of state governments in Nigeria’s renewable energy expansion, commending Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, for his sustained support for REA projects that respond directly to the needs of the people.
The Executive Director, Technical Services at the REA, Engr. Umar Abdullahi Umar, highlighted the recent unveiling of the Agency’s harmonised technical standards and specifications, which provide a national framework for the sustainable deployment of off-grid energy infrastructure. He explained that the Damau mini-grid reflects the REA’s commitment to delivering reliable, fit-for-purpose renewable energy systems. “By integrating electricity with essential services such as water supply, we are ensuring that energy access translates into real social impact, sustainability, and a clear pathway for future expansion,” he noted.
The project was delivered through close engagement with community leaders and political representatives, underscoring the REA’s commitment to inclusive planning, local ownership and stakeholder collaboration. This approach not only facilitates smoother project delivery but also strengthens sustainability, accountability and community buy-in—key factors for the long-term success of rural energy infrastructure.
Outstandingly, the Damau mini-grid presents a strong case for future expansion. Early demand from households, commercial users and productive enterprises points to growing energy needs, positioning the community as a viable candidate for capacity scale-up beyond the initial 100kWp. The REA has acknowledged this potential and continues to explore pathways for expansion in line with demand growth, sustainability considerations and available funding opportunities.
