By Obas Esiedesa, Abuja

The Federal Government has unveiled new guidelines for the safe and efficient interconnection of solar mini-grids to electricity distribution networks, in a move aimed at accelerating renewable energy deployment and improving electricity access across Nigeria.

The Guidelines for Interconnecting Solar Mini-Grids to Distribution Networks, developed by the Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA) with technical support from the Nigerian Energy Support Programme (NESP), seek to establish clear technical, operational and safety frameworks for integrating renewable energy systems into existing power infrastructure.

Speaking at the launch in Abuja, the Managing Director of NEMSA and Chief Electrical Officer of the Federation, Engr. Olusegun Adesayo, described the document as a major milestone in Nigeria’s drive towards achieving a safe, reliable, sustainable and inclusive electricity supply industry.

He said solar mini-grids have emerged as a critical solution for electrifying unserved and underserved communities but noted that their increasing deployment within the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry has created the need for clear operational standards.

According to him, the new guidelines provide comprehensive procedures, technical requirements, interconnection models and operational standards for integrating solar mini-grids into distribution networks without compromising grid stability, power quality, system reliability and public safety.

He said: “The Guidelines seek to reduce uncertainties for investors and developers while strengthening collaboration among Distribution Companies, mini-grid developers, regulators and other stakeholders”.

He added that the framework aligns with the provisions of the Electricity Act 2023, the Mini-Grid Regulations 2026 and relevant national and international standards, including IEC standards.

Adesayo expressed confidence that the document would boost investor confidence and accelerate the deployment of interconnected renewable energy systems across the country.

Speaking at the event, Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Power, Alhaji Mahmuda Mamman, said renewable energy, particularly solar mini-grids, plays a strategic role in advancing government objectives of expanding electricity access, improving energy security and promoting sustainable economic growth.

Mamman, who was represented by the Director, Distribution, Mustapha Abba, noted that interconnected and isolated solar mini-grids are increasingly providing reliable electricity to communities, businesses and productive users that previously lacked adequate access to power.

According to him, “As this segment of the electricity market continues to grow, it becomes imperative to establish clear technical and operational frameworks that will ensure safety, reliability and efficient coordination between solar mini-grid systems and existing distribution infrastructure”.

He said the guidelines are expected to strengthen investor confidence, reduce technical and regulatory uncertainties, improve system reliability and support the sustainable integration of renewable energy solutions into Nigeria’s electricity network.

Mamman commended NEMSA for demonstrating leadership in developing the document and reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to creating an enabling environment that supports innovation, private sector participation and sustainable investments in the energy sector.

He reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to ensuring that Nigerians have access to safe, reliable, affordable and sustainable electricity supply, stressing that renewable energy solutions such as solar mini-grids remain central to achieving that objective.

He noted that interconnected solar mini-grids have shown enormous potential in bridging electricity access gaps, especially in underserved and unserved communities, aided by progressive policies, increased private sector participation and support from development partners.

He observed that as these systems increasingly interface with existing distribution networks, the need for clear technical, operational and safety requirements has become more critical.

“The Guidelines being launched today provide an important framework for ensuring the safe, reliable and efficient interconnection of solar mini-grids to distribution networks across Nigeria,” the minister said.

The guidelines were developed by NEMSA with technical support from NESP, co-funded by the European Union and the Government of Germany and implemented by GIZ in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Power.

Representing the Delegation of the European Union to Nigeria & ECOWAS, Programme Manager, Energy and Circular Economy, Green and Digital Economy Section, Mr. Godfrey Ogbemudia, while congratulating NEMSA on this milestone said: “the launch of these Guidelines is particularly significant…we are confident that the guidelines will provide consistency and increase investor confidence in interconnected mini-grid projects”.

He further reiterated the commitment of the European Union to continuously support Nigeria’s energy transition and electrification ambitions.

Also speaking at the launch, Head of Development Cooperation at the German Embassy to Nigeria, Dr Karin Jasen, noted that Germany is proud to support Nigeria’s efforts to expand energy access and build a thriving renewable energy market.

She underlined Germany’s continued partnership with Nigeria in advancing sustainable energy access, strengthening institutions and mobilizing private investment.