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WeLight Signs MoU with Nigeria’s REA to Deploy 400 Minigrids and 50 MetroGrids by 2030

April 01, 2025. By News Bureau

WeLight, a fast-growing pan-African Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) company, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) of Nigeria to deploy and operate 400 minigrids plus 50 MetroGrids by 2030, significantly strengthening Nigeria’s renewable power infrastructure in rural and peri-urban communities.

This agreement will bring first-time or improved electricity access to an estimated 1.5 to 2 million people, bolstering local economies and enhancing critical services in healthcare, education, and public safety.

This partnership is a key step in achieving the M300 initiative, which aims to connect 300 million people in Africa to electricity by 2030, and aligns with the Distributed Access through Renewable Energy Scale-Up (DARES) program, backed by the World Bank and the African Development Bank. The project directly supports Nigeria’s National Energy Compact, which prioritizes Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) solutions to accelerate electrification and mobilize private investment.

By targeting the deployment and operation of 400 minigrids and 50 MetroGrids, WeLight is reinforcing its commitment to large-scale, sustainable rural electrification, in line with Nigeria’s goal of increasing the renewable energy share from 22 percent to 50 percent and securing USD 15.5 billion in private investments.

This initiative strengthens WeLight’s position as a leading DRE player dedicated to delivering affordable and reliable energy access while supporting Nigeria’s long-term energy and economic development strategy.

A total capacity of 100 MWp is planned for off-grid and under-electrified regions, helping to drive Nigeria’s energy transition and socioeconomic advancement. The REA–WeLight collaboration strives to help close the country’s energy gap, spur enterprise growth, and accelerate development in communities that have historically lacked reliable power sources.

“WeLight is delighted to partner with Nigeria’s Rural Electrification Agency, a key driver of nationwide energy transformation. This MOU not only represents a leap toward providing clean electricity to millions in Nigeria but also supports WeLight’s ambition to become a truly pan-African player,” said Romain de Villeneuve, Chief Executive Officer of WeLight. “Nigeria is one of the most promising markets in Africa where electrification needs are huge. We will endeavor to have a lasting impact on the local economy while ensuring we reach those who need it the most.”

Tags:

African Distributed Renewable Energy

Rural Electrification Agency of Nigeria

Memorandum of Understanding

Economic development

Clean electricity