AEDC, Subsidiary Back Niger On Solar Power for 180 Communities, Abuja

Electricity Distribution Plc (AEDC) has endorsed the Niger State Government’s rollout of solar mini-grids and renewable energy projects to electrify over 180 previously unserved communities, describing it as a key step in decentralised electrification.

Through its subsidiary, Niger Electricity Distribution Company (NEDC), AEDC welcomed Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago’s initiatives to deliver 24-hour solar power to areas without reliable electricity for over a decade.

Also, key public facilities, including Government House, General Hospital, IBB Specialist Hospital, Niger State Water Board, and other ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs), are transitioning to independent solar systems, representing a significant step forward in addressing long-standing energy access challenges.

The managing director of Abuja Electricity Distribution Plc (AEDC), Chijioke Okwuokenye, commented: “We fully support the Niger State government’s proactive approach to expanding access to reliable electricity through renewables.

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,” Okwuokenye stated, according to a release signed by AEDC head, Brand Marketing and Corporate Communications, Omede Odekina.

The chief business officer and acting managing director of the Niger Electricity Distribution Company (NEDC), Sam Odekina, added: “The deployment of solar mini-grids in previously unserved areas aligns perfectly with our 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, grid integration where feasible, and innovative projects that deliver sustainable benefits to residents, businesses, and institutions alike.”

The Niger Electricity Distribution Company fully recognises that these actions align with the decentralised and multi-source electricity framework established by the Electricity Act 2023, the establishment of the Niger State Electricity Regulatory Commission (NSERC), and the ongoing domestication of relevant regulations within Niger State.

The deployment of solar mini-grids in areas such as Lambata in the Gurara Local Government Area, supported by partnerships including the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) and international donors, complements national efforts to expand renewable energy access and reduce reliance on traditional grid extensions where they are not yet viable.

NEDC restated it’s full commitment to working collaboratively with the Niger State Government, the Niger State Electricity Regulatory Commission (NSERC), and all relevant stakeholders to deliver reliable, sustainable, and inclusive electricity supply throughout Niger State.

This, it said 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 State 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 Niger State,” the company stated.