Plateau State, which is reportedly rich in renewable energy sources for electricity generation has said it will give about 10 out of the 30 per cent contribution renewable energy is expected to make in Nigeria’s energy mix in 2030.
It said it has initiated conscious efforts and procedures to accomplish the target, starting with its recent launch of a renewable energy policy and implementation plan which is supported by a guide on initiating and engaging public private partnerships on solar mini grids systems.
Mr. Solomon Lalong, the state governor, said these at the third edition of the annual National Council on Power (NACOP) in Jos, capital of the state. He also said the state was in a hurry to get started on its plans for renewable power generation, and that it could claim immense competitive advantage on solar, wind, biomass, and small hydro power generation over all states in Nigeria.
“As we bask in the euphoria of this victory (referring to the recent national league victory of the state’s football team – Plateau United) and the prospects of hosting continental football on the Plateau next season, it is our desire that people living in the rural areas of the state also enjoy this experience along with us, even if it will be via television only.
“For this reason and many others, we are in a hurry to increase the pace of our rural electrification programme,” said Lalong.
He further stated: “As you already know, Plateau has the exceptional advantage of enjoying the abundance of four of the major renewable energy sources of solar, wind, small hydro and biomass. It is our target, as a state to supply, at least, 10 per cent of the renewable energy ratio in the national energy mix.”
“We are in full support of the national power goal of 30:30:30 being pursued by Nigeria towards not just improving power supply, but doing so with emphasis on increasing the contribution of renewables in the national energy mix as we join the world to combat and mitigate the adverse effects of climate change,” added Lalong.
The governor equally disclosed that already two solar power mini grid plants were currently being built in the state. The projects, OGN learnt are being done by indigenous turnkey renewable energy firm – GVE Ltd, in Demshin and Anguwa Rina villages.
On this, Lalong said: “We are equally grateful to the European Union and the German Federation, which, through the Nigerian Energy Support Program (NESP) are working with Plateau State to build the first solar-powered mini-grid plant in Demshin and Anguwa Rina villages in Plateau. These two projects are scheduled for commissioning in November this year.”
