Primary healthcare centres and other public institutions in Delta State would soon benefit from expanded access to solar electricity as the state government advances plans with the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) to deploy renewable energy infrastructure.
The proposed programme is designed to address electricity challenges in critical public facilities while reducing reliance on generators and other conventional sources of power.
The Commissioner for Energy, Mr. Michael Anoka, disclosed the development during a meeting with stakeholders to review a proposed collaboration agreement with the REA.
Anoka said the state was willing to embrace partnerships capable of transforming electricity access, particularly in institutions where dependable power is essential to effective service delivery.
Primary healthcare facilities are expected to be among the key beneficiaries, potentially gaining a more stable power supply for essential operations and equipment.
But while the government supports the initiative, officials are examining the financial and contractual implications before giving the agreement final approval.
The Ministry of Justice has reviewed the draft and sought clarification on issues including maintenance obligations, payment guarantees and possible long-term financial commitments by the state.
Under the proposed financing model, the solar installations would be funded by the Federal Government and private project developers.
The state would mainly be responsible for agreed payments for the operation and maintenance of the facilities, with the arrangement structured around an Energy-as-a-Service model.
REA officials said they would require information on electricity consumption and current generator costs from beneficiary institutions.
The data would help determine the size of the proposed installations and establish appropriate service charges.
Anoka said Delta’s participation would be guided by accountability and value for money, adding that no partnership would be allowed to undermine the interests of the state and its people.
He described renewable energy as an important part of the government’s broader effort to improve electricity access and strengthen public services.
The initiative, if concluded, could mark a significant shift in how some public institutions meet their energy needs, particularly facilities that currently depend heavily on generators.
