Okomu Oil Palm Partners to Launch Solar Hybrid Mini-Grid in Edo State

Okomu Oil Palm Company Plc has joined forces with the Foundation for Partnership Initiatives in the Niger Delta (PIND), ETIN Power Limited, and the Gbelebu Community to commission a solar hybrid mini-grid in Gbelebu Community, located within the Ovia South-West Local Government Area of Edo State. This collaborative effort marks a significant milestone in advancing sustainable energy access for the local population.

The newly inaugurated facility features a 61kWp solar generation capacity, complemented by a 50kW inverter and 154kWh battery storage system. Initially, the mini-grid aims to supply reliable electricity to 100 households as well as various micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the community. This initiative is expected to substantially reduce dependence on diesel and petrol-powered generators, thereby lowering energy costs and supporting economic activities.

The commissioning event was graced by the Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Dennis Idahosa. Their presence underscored the importance of renewable energy projects in the state's development agenda and the government's commitment to fostering clean energy solutions.

This project is a key component of Okomu Oil Palm’s broader N1.2 billion, three-year partnership with PIND, formalized in 2025. The partnership is designed to support various development initiatives across Okomu's host communities in Edo State, encompassing peacebuilding, youth employment, agricultural development, access to finance, and renewable energy enhancement.

Funded through Okomu’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program, the mini-grid project was executed under a formal implementation framework established in May 2026 by Okomu, PIND, ETIN Power, and the Gbelebu Community. This framework includes essential agreements such as the Power Purchase Agreement, Land Transfer Agreement, and a Sustainability and Operations and Maintenance Framework to ensure long-term viability and community ownership.

Okomu Oil Palm provided the necessary investment and acted as the host partner, while PIND played a pivotal role in facilitating the project from concept development, community engagement, and technical planning to implementation oversight. ETIN Power was responsible for the design and installation of the solar hybrid mini-grid and will oversee its ongoing operations.

The introduction of this mini-grid represents a transformative step for Gbelebu Community, delivering cleaner energy solutions that enhance the quality of life and promote sustainable economic growth. By lowering reliance on fossil fuel generators, the project not only contributes to environmental protection but also creates opportunities for increased productivity among households and businesses.

As part of Okomu’s commitment to sustainable community development, this initiative showcases the potential of public-private-community partnerships in driving renewable energy adoption and fostering resilient, empowered communities in Edo State and beyond.