By Abbas Nazil
Delta State has unveiled plans to position itself as a hub for renewable energy with potential investments estimated at $158 million and the creation of more than 31,200 jobs through private sector-led mini-grid projects.
The projection was revealed by the Executive Director of the Rural Electrification Fund, Hon. Engr. Doris Uboh, during the Rural Electrification Agency State-by-State Roundtable Engagement with Delta State held in Abuja.
According to Uboh, bridging electricity gaps across the state would unlock major opportunities in underserved local government areas such as Ndokwa East, Burutu, Ughelli South, Oshimili North, and Warri South West.
She emphasized that sustainable electrification would not only provide power for households and businesses but also stimulate economic growth, attract investors, and place Delta at the forefront of renewable energy development.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to using renewable energy as a driver of industrial growth, rural development, and inclusive opportunities.
He explained that access to electricity remains critical to productivity, investor confidence, and improved livelihoods.
The governor disclosed that Delta has already developed a Decentralized Energy Plan aimed at powering key government institutions such as the Government House, the new State Secretariat Complex, Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba Airport, and state-owned universities through embedded renewable systems.
Plans are also being designed to extend power access to rural communities and schools across the state.
Oborevwori assured potential investors of a conducive business climate, transparency, and guaranteed returns, while noting that the demand for off-grid and mini-grid renewable solutions in rural areas, schools, hospitals, and small businesses is massive and continuously growing.
The Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency, Abba Aliyu, praised Delta’s forward-looking electrification strategy centered on distributed renewable energy and private sector collaboration.
He revealed that REA has $1.16 billion available to support projects nationwide but stressed the importance of strong state and investor partnerships.
Aliyu further mentioned that an investor is considering a $53 billion 600MW solar panel assembly plant and encouraged Delta State to lobby for the project to be sited locally.
Chief Economic Adviser to the Governor, Dr. Barry Gbe, described the roundtable as a platform to build partnerships and accelerate Delta’s transition to a sustainable energy system.
A Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the REA, RESCOs, and the Delta State Government to formalize commitments to renewable energy investments.
Governor Oborevwori concluded by stressing that fossil fuels are becoming increasingly expensive and unsustainable, making renewable energy the future.
He described the development as a win-win, where investors will make profits while Delta State achieves greater electricity access and economic growth.
