Rural Communities Pay More for Stable Electricity: A Surprising Trend

Rural Communities Pay More for Stable Electricity: A Surprising Trend

The Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Abba Aliyu, has revealed that rural communities in Nigeria are willing to pay more for stable electricity supply, with some paying tariffs as high as N250 to N280 per kilowatt hour. This is higher than what Band A electricity consumers pay, despite the latter’s more reliable access to electricity.

Aliyu explained that the electricity tariff paid by rural communities depends on the total cost of infrastructure deployed by the REA. The agency has completed scores of mini-grids and interconnected mini-grids for universities and general hospitals across the country, providing stable electricity supply to these communities. The use of solar energy as an economically viable model for power generation has also been explored.

The fact that rural communities are willing to pay more for stable electricity supply is a testament to their resilience and determination to improve their lives. For decades, Nigeria has faced significant energy challenges, with an epileptic power supply affecting productivity levels. The privatization of the electricity sector has not entirely resolved these issues, with policy inconsistency, low investments, and operational challenges persisting.

– Rural communities in Nigeria are willing to pay more for stable electricity supply.
– The REA has completed scores of mini-grids and interconnected mini-grids across the country.
– The use of solar energy is being explored as an economically viable model for power generation.
– The electricity tariff paid by rural communities depends on the total cost of infrastructure deployed.

The REA’s efforts to provide stable electricity supply to rural communities are commendable, and the willingness of these communities to pay for this service is a positive development. As Nigeria continues to grapple with its energy challenges, it is essential to prioritize investments in the electricity sector and ensure that policies are consistent and supportive of growth.