• ENGIE installs 15 mini-grids with 1.4 MW capacity in three Nigerian states.
• Project aims to cut diesel use and reduce CO₂ emissions by 33,000 tonnes.
• Abu Dhabi’s Ignite Power plans to acquire ENGIE Energy Access for expansion.

ENGIE Energy Access has commissioned 15 solar mini-grids across Niger, Kogi, and Nasarawa states in Nigeria. These grids, with a combined capacity of 1.4 megawatts, will deliver clean electricity to 30,000 people in rural homes and businesses.

This rollout follows a $60 million financing deal signed with CrossBoundary Energy Access (CBEA). Under the agreement, CBEA finances the mini-grids while ENGIE builds and operates them. ENGIE said this partnership ensures sustainable power supply for communities still living without grid electricity in Nigeria, where over 85 million people remain off-grid.

The project also aims to replace diesel generators, cutting more than 33,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions. The initiative highlights how public-private partnerships can accelerate rural electrification in Nigeria, supported by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA). ENGIE added that the financing model, rare for mini-grids, spreads risk and secures long-term operations through private sector involvement.

Meanwhile, Ignite Power, based in Abu Dhabi, has signed an agreement to buy 100% of ENGIE Energy Access, pending regulatory approval. Announced in January, the acquisition will let Ignite expand ENGIE’s operations to 14 countries, reaching over 15 million customers with PAYGo solar products and mini-grids.

This article was initially published in French by Abdoullah Diop

Edited in English by Ange Jason Quenum