Sahara Power Group, Ikeja Electric, and Darway Coast, with technical support from RMI and funding from the Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP), have successfully commissioned the 500 kW Robinyo interconnected minigrid (IMG) in Robinyan, Ogun State. This project integrates grid power with solar PV and battery storage to provide reliable and cost-effective electricity, addressing long-standing energy challenges and promoting sustainable economic development in the community.
Anthony Youdeowei, Managing Director, Sahara Power Group, said in a statement, “Making a difference through reliable, accessible and clean energy solutions remains a critical quest for Sahara Power and we are delighted this has come to fruition. We look forward to this project translating to enhanced economic prosperity for Robinyan residents.”
Henry Ureh, CEO/Managing Director, Darway Coast Nigeria Limited, “At Darway Coast, we believe that access to sustainable and reliable energy is the foundation for community empowerment and economic growth. Partnering on the Robinyan mini grid project allows us to demonstrate our commitment to innovative, environmentally responsible energy solutions that directly benefit local residents and businesses. This project is a testament to the power of collaboration in transforming Nigeria’s energy landscape.”
For years, Robinyan residents and businesses faced frequent power outages, relying on petrol and diesel generators that were both expensive and environmentally harmful. To provide a lasting solution, Sahara Power Group, through its affiliate Ikeja Electric, partnered with Darway Coast and the local community to initiate the IMG project in 2022. Darway Coast took the lead in developing, designing, and constructing the energy generation infrastructure, including upgrading and expanding the distribution network, while Ikeja Electric provided technical support and facilitated community engagement.
The newly commissioned system includes a 500-kW solar PV array, 625 kWh of battery storage, a 500kVA backup generator, and extensive distribution network upgrades, ensuring consistent power for homes, businesses, and public services. The project was made possible through philanthropic grants from GEAPP, with RMI offering essential technical assistance.
The Chief Executive Officer of Ikeja Electric, Mrs. Folake Soetan, extended her appreciation to all stakeholders, community members, and government agencies at various levels for their guidance and support in making the project a success. “While this is Ikeja Electric’s first commissioning of distributed energy solutions, we are working with other developers and will be commissioning more projects on the back of this,” stated Mrs. Soetan.
Ije Ikoku Okeke, RMI Managing Director of Global South and Catalytic Capital programs, mentioned “This project represents a significant milestone in our commitment to delivering reliable and sustainable energy solutions in Nigeria. Through such strategic partnerships, we’re demonstrating that distributed energy resources can complement traditional grid infrastructure to deliver clean, reliable, and affordable power.”
Fauzia Okediji, Manager, Utility Innovation at GEAPP, commented “This project showcases radical collaboration and an innovative business model that integrates clean energy with the grid, improving supply quality and reducing reliance on costly fossil fuels. By improving access to reliable, sustainable energy, the project is empowering communities, impacting livelihoods. This model informs the DARES program’s strategy to accelerate the mission to electrify 300 million people across Africa.”
The Robinyan IMG will serve over 1,400 connections, directly benefiting more than 5,000 people. With an annual generation of approximately 545,000 kWh, it will reduce carbon emissions by 420 metric tons each year by replacing diesel generators. Beyond environmental benefits, the project will improve educational facilities, enhance healthcare services, and attract business investments, contributing to economic growth. The initiative highlights the potential of utility-integrated distributed energy resources to improve electricity access, especially in peri-urban areas with limited grid infrastructure. Expanding this model could play a key role in strengthening energy reliability across Nigeria and Africa.
