The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has disbursed N3.2bn to Zanoplus for the deployment of solar mini-grid projects across Bauchi State, the agency announced on Sunday.
The initiative, part of the Distributed Access through Renewable Energy Scale-up (DARES) Programme, aims to accelerate electricity access in unserved and underserved communities through decentralised energy solutions.
“The Rural Electrification Agency has achieved another significant milestone in its mission to close the energy gap in unserved and underserved communities with the successful disbursement of N3.2bn to Zanoplus,” the agency stated.
The funding follows a recent N7.4bn disbursement to Ventura Logistics Services for a 7MW mini-grid project in Ebonyi State, underscoring REA’s commitment to private sector participation in renewable energy development.
Under the programme, a financing agreement with Lotus Bank allows developers to access up to N8bn for equipment procurement over 18 months, with the bank providing up to 90 per cent counterpart funding for result-based approved projects.
The Zanoplus mini-grid project will deliver over 1.2MWp of electricity to multiple communities, including Gabarin East (450kWp), Futuk (400kWp), Gangalawai (200kWp), and Daburai in Gabarin West (150kWp). These systems will operate independently of the national grid, supplying reliable clean energy directly to remote areas.
REA Managing Director, Abba Aliyu, emphasised transparency and efficiency in the disbursement process, stating that the performance-based financing model ensures capital reaches credible and ready-to-implement projects.
Aliyu also highlighted the growing confidence in Nigeria’s renewable energy sector, noting that local financial institutions are playing an increasingly central role in driving energy infrastructure development.
“The steady flow of investment sends a powerful signal to both global and local investors that the Nigerian renewable energy market is vibrant and its supporting structures are effective,” he said.
The REA’s continued support for decentralised energy projects aims to transform the socio-economic landscape of remote communities, creating opportunities for business growth, improved livelihoods, and sustainable electricity access.
