Mini-grids in Nigeria
West Africa
15 mini-grids across three states, serving over 30,000 people
These communities had businesses in operation but no central grid connection. Extending the grid to them has not been commercially viable, so each mini-grid generates solar power locally, stores it in batteries and distributes electricity through a local network to homes and businesses.
All 15 sites have been operational since July 2025, providing a full year of operating data across the portfolio. They are part of what was, when announced, Africa’s largest mini-grid project financing transaction.
Where the sites are
Select RegionWhat reliable electricity makes possible for local businesses
Mohammad Sani ran his rice mill on a diesel generator for nearly 20 years. Since connecting to the mini-grid, he says he can mill 30 bags of rice in two days.
“It has made my production way faster, and I now have a lot more customers at my mill.”
Chigozie moved his business to Sonfada Gabi after hearing that electricity was available. He bought a fridge for his shop and can now sell chilled items.
“Now everything inside gets very cold, and I even get to sell ice blocks. This has really made my business profitable.”
How this project is run
The mini-grids were developed under the Nigerian Electrification Project, administered by the Rural Electrification Agency, with funding from the World Bank.
- Ignite Energy Access develops, builds and operates the mini-grids
- CrossBoundary Access finances construction and owns the assets
Two standard agreements govern the partnership: one for development and one for operations. Our Operating Services Agreement template is available on Open Source.
What's next
A clear roadmap lays ahead of us.
