CESEL – Concerto JV Receives Grant From the Nigerian Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Funded by the World Bank

The CESEL – Concerto Joint Venture in June 2024 has received the Nigerian Rural Electrification Agency (REA) Performance Based Grant (PBG) funded by the World Bank, following on from the successful commissioning of four Solar Hybrid Mini Grid Projects in Osi, Arajoshua, Alutierin, and Olomuoja communities in Ife South Local Government Area of Osun State in October 2023.

The REA’s support of these projects underscores Government’s commitment to the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG7) which calls for “affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all” by 2030 and embracing Sustainable Development Goal 17 (SDG 17) evidenced through the REA’s encouragement of partnerships with the World Bank and the CESEL-Conserto JV.

The Mini-Grid Projects commenced in 2023 and achieved Technical Commissioning in October 2023. In January 2024, a Grand Commissioning event was held in Ile Ife, with His Imperial Majesty, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi (Ọjájá II) CFR, the Osun State Governor, ably represented by Honourable Rev. Bunmi Jenyo, Commissioner for Commerce and Industries, Honourable Engr. Festus Ademola Adeyemo, the Commissioner for Energy Matters for Osun State, Mr. Arsh Sharma, World Bank Senior Energy Specialist, and other dignitaries and paramount rulers in attendance.

Today, the completed 150kw solar hybrid mini grids in the communities represent a significant leap towards achieving universal access to electricity in off-grid locations and the reduction of energy poverty in Nigeria. The four mini grid sites provide electricity to over 1,200 households and marks a significant development milestone for the communities.

Commenting on the occasion, Dr. Patrick Tolani, the CEO of CESEL, said ‘‘The completed mini grid projects provide a reliable and sustainable source of energy, which has transformed lives and fostered economic growth. We appreciate our partners the World Bank and the Rural Electrification Agency for their critical role in the success of this project.’’

Acknowledging receipt of the grant, Mr. ‘Lare Daramola, Chairman of the CESEL-Concerto JV said, ‘‘On behalf of the CESEL- Conserto JV, I would like to thank the World Bank and the Rural Electrification Agency for their support, partnership and oversight, which have made this project possible. I am personally grateful for the sterling leadership of the REA Managing Director and CEO, Mr Abba Aliyu.’’

‘‘This grant is a strong endorsement of the sterling work being done by the CESEL – Concerto JV to provide reliable and clean electricity to communities disconnected from the national grid. We hope to replicate the success of this project in other underserved communities in the near future.’’

The JV remains dedicated to supporting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and collaborating with local communities, government agencies, and international partners to expand access to clean energy across Nigeria.