FG, Sahara Group, others agree on framework for completion of 1GW on-grid solar plants 

Oredola Adeola

… targets 30% completion by 2030

The Federal Government has met with Sahara Group and other developers to agree on the framework for the resolution of the impasse on the 1-Gigawatt Independent Power Producer (IPP) solar power plants with commitment of achieving 30 percent by 2030.

The meeting held in Abuja on Thursday  and chaired by Dr. Zainab Ahmed, Minister Of Finance, Budget and National Planning, was also attended by Engr. Abubakar Aliyu, Minister of Power, Engr. Ahmad Zakari, Special Adviser to the President Muhammadu Buhari on Infrastructure, Kola Adesina, MD/CEO Sahara Group, Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), Nigeria Bulk Electricity Trading (NBET) electricity distribution companies and other stakeholders.

EnergyDay gathered that the meeting was part of measures by the government to perfect the framework for the resolution of the impasse on the 1-Gigawatt Solar Power Plants ($1 billion in new investment), which has prevented developers from moving to site since signing Power Purchase Agreements in 2016.

Dr. Zainab Ahmed in her remark, said the presence of developers at the meeting was proof of their commitment to the success of the project.

Engr. Aliyu on his part revealed that the 1-Gigawatt of renewable energy can make a difference, considering the energy demands of Nigeria. He said that the government is confronting electricity challenges with the implementation of numerous initiatives.

The Power Minister further added that current measures taken to improve electricity supply in Nigeria are yielding results. He revealed that the government will continue to explore diverse ways of ensuring that electricity supply improves in the country.

Engr. Zakari, on his part, said that the resolution of all issues delaying the take-off of the project will accelerate the government’s commitment to achieving 30% of grid power from renewable energy sources by 2030.

The SA to the President on Infrastructure noted that diversifying Nigeria’s energy sources will balance the energy demands of the country and mitigate future occurrences of grid disruptions occasioned by gas supply challenges.

The government has called on the developers to  move to site and commence operation before the end of the year.