NEW LAGOS MINI-GRID WILL UNLOCK BUSINESSES, JOBS — SENATOR

The establishment of a new mini-grid in Lagos will significantly boost small businesses and create thousands of jobs, according to Senator Solomon Adeola, who represents Lagos West Senatorial District.

Senator Adeola made the assertion on Friday during the commissioning of the 5MW solar-hybrid mini-grid project in the Alimosho area of the state. The initiative, a collaboration between the federal and state governments, private investors, and development partners, is designed to provide reliable and affordable electricity to underserved communities and industrial clusters.

“This mini-grid is a game-changer. It will unlock the potential of small and medium enterprises that have been crippled by unreliable power supply. We expect it to create direct and indirect jobs for our youths while reducing reliance on diesel generators,” the senator said.

The project includes solar panels, battery storage systems, and smart metering technology to ensure efficient power distribution. It is expected to serve over 10,000 households and businesses, with plans for expansion to other parts of the state.

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who was represented at the event, commended the initiative as part of the state’s broader strategy to achieve energy security and sustainability. “Reliable power is critical to our economic growth. This mini-grid aligns with our vision of a smarter, more resilient Lagos,” the governor noted.

Stakeholders at the event highlighted the environmental benefits of the project, including reduced carbon emissions from diesel-powered generators. The mini-grid is also expected to lower energy costs for users and improve productivity in the area.

Senator Adeola called for similar projects across other senatorial districts to ensure equitable access to electricity. He urged the private sector to invest more in renewable energy solutions, noting that Nigeria’s vast solar potential remains largely untapped.

The commissioning of the Lagos mini-grid is seen as a model for other states seeking to address the persistent power challenges hindering economic development in Nigeria.