Delta State Government is intensifying discussions with the Rural Electrification Agency on deploying large-scale solar projects in the primary healthcare centres and other public institutions across the State.
The State Commissioner for Energy, Mr. Michael Anoka, disclosed this on Friday at a strategic meeting held in Asaba with stakeholders, noting that “the initiative is expected to expand access to clean and reliable electricity in the public institutions”.
The meeting reviewed the proposed Collaboration Agreement for deploying renewable energy infrastructure under the Federal Government’s Rural Electrification Programme.
While reaffirming Delta State’s readiness to partner with the Federal Government and development agencies on impactful energy projects, the Commissioner emphasized that “every agreement must adequately protect the interests of the State and its people.
“Delta State welcomed strategic investments capable of transforming electricity access in critical public institutions.”
He, however, maintained that due diligence, accountability and value for money would remain central to every partnership entered into by the state.
He said that the renewable energy initiative would complement the state government’s efforts to improve energy access, stressing that “the project would promote clean energy adoption and strengthen service delivery across key sectors.”
The participants examined the potential impact of the initiative on healthcare delivery, public services and the state’s transition to cleaner energy sources.
Officials from the Ministry of Justice presented observations on the draft agreement and identified areas requiring further clarification, such as the State’s long-term financial obligations, operation and maintenance responsibilities, payment guarantees and other contractual commitments.
Representatives of the Rural Electrification Agency, on their part, explained the proposed financing structure for the solar installations, noting that the projects would be financed by the Federal Government and private project developers under the programme’s financing model.
The REA representatives clarified that “the State’s responsibility would primarily involve agreed service payments for operating and maintaining the facilities.”
They explained that the arrangement would operate under an Energy-as-a-Service model.
To facilitate the next phase, the REA requested data on electricity consumption and generator expenditure from proposed beneficiary institutions.
The data, according to the REA team, would enable the agency to determine appropriate service charges after completion of the projects.
