The Rockefeller Foundation and Jeff Bezos’ Earth Fund have teamed up to launch an ambitious solar mini-grid program in Nigeria, aiming to solve the country’s persistent power supply issues. Spearheaded by the Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP) in partnership with the Ikea Foundation, this initiative seeks to provide a stable energy solution for millions of Nigerians who currently suffer from unreliable access to electricity, boosting both productivity and economic growth across the country.
In a landmark move, the project aims to establish 10,000 megawatts (MW) of solar mini-grids across Nigeria, a solution that could reshape the country’s energy landscape. Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, has long grappled with power supply challenges, with a national grid delivering just 4,000 MW of power—far short of what the country requires. Frequent outages, grid collapses, and limited access to power have become a norm, disrupting lives and stifling economic growth. For over 86 million Nigerians without access to electricity, the introduction of these mini-grids represents a beacon of hope.
Nigeria has long faced a severe energy shortfall, with its national grid supplying just 4,000 MW of power, far below the country’s needs. This inadequate supply has left more than 86 million people without reliable electricity access, making Nigeria the nation with the largest number of people living without power globally. The consequences are felt across all sectors, with businesses and households relying on costly diesel generators to fill the gap left by the grid’s frequent outages. These power shortages are estimated to cost Nigeria around $29 billion annually, which is approximately 5.6% of its GDP.
The Rockefeller Foundation and Jeff Bezos’ Earth Fund, through their Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP), aim to bridge this gap by building 10,000 MW of solar mini-grids. These mini-grids will provide a decentralized, reliable energy source that operates independently or in tandem with the national grid. Already, pilot projects are underway, with the first interconnected mini-grid, developed by Nigerian company Darway Coast, going live in Ogun State. This 1MW solar mini-grid is expected to provide 24-hour electricity to the local community, a significant improvement for areas currently receiving limited hours of power from the national grid.
The introduction of solar mini-grids is expected to drive significant economic benefits for Nigeria. For businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), the availability of reliable power will cut costs associated with diesel generators, improve productivity, and foster growth. The ability to operate without frequent power interruptions will enable businesses to scale operations more effectively, creating a ripple effect of economic growth.
In addition, the initiative will have a transformative impact on sectors such as healthcare and education, where reliable electricity is critical for effective operations. Hospitals and schools, especially in rural areas, stand to benefit from continuous power, which will allow for better service delivery and improved outcomes in public health and education.
Moreover, the project will stimulate rural development by bringing electricity to underserved communities. Many rural areas, traditionally neglected by the national grid, will now have access to affordable and consistent energy. This will open new opportunities for local enterprises in agriculture, retail, and manufacturing, leading to improved livelihoods.
The solar mini-grid project has attracted international interest and financial backing. The World Bank has committed $130 million to support similar projects in Nigeria, while the African Development Bank’s Mission 300 initiative is based on this model, aiming to bring electricity to 300 million people across 15 African countries by 2030. These developments demonstrate the global recognition of the success and scalability of Nigeria’s mini-grid initiative.
Environmentally, the shift toward solar power will reduce Nigeria’s dependence on fossil fuels, significantly lowering greenhouse gas emissions. This shift is essential for Nigeria, a country heavily reliant on oil and gas, as it moves towards a more sustainable energy future. The project will also promote clean energy adoption, contributing to global efforts to combat climate change.
Beyond solving energy shortages, the Rockefeller Foundation and Bezos-backed solar mini-grid initiative serves as a catalyst for broader economic and social transformation in Nigeria. By providing a scalable and sustainable solution to the country’s energy challenges, the initiative offers a model for other African nations facing similar issues. As Nigeria faces rising energy demands and pressure to reduce its carbon footprint, this project marks a crucial turning point in the country’s energy policy.
The mini-grid program not only promises reliable electricity for millions of Nigerians but also fosters economic growth, creates jobs, and improves the overall quality of life. With support from the World Bank, the African Development Bank, and other international bodies, this initiative stands to revolutionize Nigeria’s energy sector and pave the way for similar efforts across Africa.
