Ajia town, a rural community in Ona Ara Local Government Area of Oyo state, has been in total darkness for decades.
The lack of electricity has hindered the socio-economic development of the community, making life difficult for residents.
However, the narrative has changed with the construction of a solar hybrid mini grid, a project initiated by the Oyo state Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde and a team of renowned renewable energy experts.
THE CHALLENGE
Prior to the construction of the solar hybrid mini grid, Ajia town relied on candles, lanterns and more importantly generators as source of power supply.
The high cost of fuel and maintenance of generators made it difficult for residents to access electricity.
The lack of electricity also affected the local economy, as businesses struggled to operate.
The community was in dire need of a reliable and sustainable source of energy.
THE SOLUTION
The solar hybrid mini grid, constructed by the Seyi Makinde administration is a game-changer for Ajia town.
The project, which will soon be commissioned by the governor has brought relief to residents.
The solar hybrid mini grid is a combination of solar and diesel power, which provides a reliable source of energy.
The project includes a 100kw solar panel, a 100kva diesel generator, and a distribution channel that covers the entire community.
IMPACT
The solar hybrid mini grid has had a significant impact on Ajia town.
Residents can now access electricity, which has improved their socio-economic well-being.
Businesses are thriving, and the local economy is growing.
The project has also created jobs for residents, who are now employed as technicians and maintenance personnel.
GOVERNMENT’S ROLE
The Oyo state government, through the Ministry of Energy, has played a crucial role in the project.
The government provided Infrastructure support and funding for the project as part of Oyo state government’s effort at making life meaningful for its citizenry.
Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration has made renewable energy a priority, and the solar hybrid mini grid is one of the projects aimed at achieving this goal.
PARTNERSHIP
Seun Ashamu, the state Commissioner for Energy said the government is working in partnership with renowned renewable energy expert, which has been instrumental to the success of the project.
The construction of the solar hybrid mini grid, which has brought relief to Ajia town showed State Government’s commitment to the Makinde’s vision and passion for renewable energy, which has also led to initiating similar projects in 26 other rural communities across Oyo state.
The mini grids; a combination of State-funded and private sector funded projects in other locations include but not limited to; A combination of state funded and private sector funded: Otefon, Atiba;
Agbaruru; Iwajowa; Elekonkan, Iwajowa; Adafila; Orire; Abuja Leather; Itwesiwaju; Olokoto; Orire; Oko-Ile, Orire; RCDC, Afijio; Ahoro Dada, Orire; Sanni Sala Saki West; Orita Orisunmibare, Saki West; Arget, Itesiwaju; Igbori, Orire
Alaropo Nla, Orire; Ayegun Wasimi, Iwajowa; Overate, Saki West
Kofeogun, Iwajowa; Iregba Oja, Surulere and Budo Are, Itesiwaju.
COMMUNITY’S REACTION
Residents of Ajia town are excited about the solar hybrid mini grid.
They can now access electricity, which has improved their lives.
The project has also brought hope to the community, as they look forward to a brighter future.
The construction of the solar hybrid mini grid in Ajia town is a significant milestone in Oyo state’s renewable energy journey as the project has shown that renewable energy can be a reliable source of power, even in rural communities.
Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration has demonstrated its commitment to renewable energy, and Seun Ashamu’s expertise under the strict supervision of the state’s Chief Executive has made the project a success.
As Oyo state continues to embrace renewable energy, communities like Ajia town will continue to benefit from the solar revolution.
