Engr. Aliyu T. Tukur, Managing Director of the Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA) and Chief Electrical Inspector of the Federation, recently emphasized the importance of technical standards in the solar mini-grid sector during a stakeholders’ sensitization workshop. This event was supported by the European Union and the German Government through the Nigerian Energy Support Programme (NESP).
Workshop Overview
The workshop, themed “Strengthening and Safeguarding Nigeria’s Renewable Energy Landscape: Solar Mini-Grid Components, Materials, Equipment, and Best Installation Practices,” focused on the growing solar market in Nigeria and the need for robust regulatory frameworks. Tukur highlighted the anticipated influx of international development financing, including the $750 million World Bank-funded Distributed Access through Renewable Energy Scale-Up (DARES) program.
Commitment to the Sector
Tukur stated, “With the market rapidly expanding, we are committed to safeguarding the solar mini-grid sector.” He urged funders, developers, and manufacturers to collaborate with NEMSA from the inception of their projects. This collaboration is crucial for ensuring efficient inspections and certifications, which will ultimately expedite deployment and commissioning timelines.
EU’s Role in Renewable Energy
Mr. Godfrey Egbemudia, representative of the Head of Section for Green and Digital Economy at the European Union delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, reiterated the EU’s strong advocacy for sustainable energy. He emphasized the agency’s critical role in ensuring the safety and reliability of solar mini-grids. Egbemudia also reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to supporting relevant ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) like NEMSA in enhancing the regulatory environment for market scalability and sustainability.
Conclusion
The joint efforts of NEMSA and international partners like the EU and the German Government signify a strong commitment to developing Nigeria’s renewable energy sector. By focusing on technical standards and regulatory frameworks, stakeholders aim to enhance the solar mini-grid landscape and contribute to a sustainable energy future in Nigeria.
Sources
- NEMSA – Official Website
- European Union – Nigeria Relations
- World Bank – Renewable Energy Initiatives
