The European Union (EU) has ended six years of darkness in Etomi, a community in Cross River State, by funding a solar mini-grid project. The initiative, implemented in partnership with GIZ, provides 119.5kW of electricity to over 600 households and businesses in the community, marking a major milestone for the EU’s Global Gateway initiative in Nigeria.
Head of the Green and Digital Economy Section of the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Inga Stefanowicz, highlighted the significance of the project, explaining that the solar mini-grid, managed through a public-private partnership, ensures sustainable and long-term power supply. A private company operates the grid with oversight from the Cross River State Government, enhancing accountability and longevity.
“The provision of reliable, clean, and affordable electricity will drive social and economic development,” Stefanowicz said. She emphasized the impact on Etomi’s cocoa farmers, whose agricultural productivity is expected to increase with access to consistent power.
Cross River’s Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy, Eka Williams, expressed gratitude, acknowledging the support of the state government and EU. She added that the project serves as a model, with similar installations planned for other communities in Etung Local Government Area.
Residents like John Okpa celebrated the development, noting it has transformed the community after six years without power. Precious Jeremiah, a local business owner, shared her relief at no longer relying on a costly generator to run her hair-styling shop. “Now, my customers enjoy a cool, clean atmosphere, and I can save money, covering household expenses and my children’s school fees,” she said.
This EU-backed solar project stands as a testament to the role of renewable energy in uplifting communities and enhancing the quality of life for local residents.
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