- RPE selected under World Bank backed Utility Enabled Projects programme to deploy interconnected mini grid systems across Nigeria.
- Programme anchored by Rural Electrification Agency targets 17.5 million people and US$1.1 billion in private sector investment mobilisation.
- New regulatory framework from Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission strengthens investor protection and grid integration certainty.
Royal Power and Energy Limited has been selected as a successful bidder under the World Bank backed Utility Enabled Projects programme, marking a significant expansion for the company as it moves to deploy interconnected mini grid systems that will operate in direct integration with existing distribution infrastructure across Nigeria.
The initiative, implemented under the Rural Electrification Agency, is designed to accelerate the deployment of renewable energy mini grid infrastructure that can both stabilise and supplement the national distribution network. Unlike standalone electrification systems, the interconnected model prioritises reliability improvements in peri urban and urban clusters, while extending access to underserved households and commercial users. The approach is expected to reduce dependence on fossil fuel based generation, which remains a dominant backup power source for many Nigerian consumers.
The Utility Enabled Projects programme forms part of the broader Distributed Access through Renewable Energy Scale up initiative, which targets the rollout of 1,350 mini grids nationwide, including 250 interconnected systems. The overall programme is supported by a US$750 million World Bank loan and is expected to catalyse approximately US$1.1 billion in private sector investment. In total, the initiative aims to expand electricity access to around 17.5 million people in Nigeria.
The project is also being implemented within a strengthened regulatory environment following the introduction of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission Mini Grid Regulations 2026. The framework introduces exclusive development rights for up to 12 months for developers and establishes clearer compensation mechanisms to protect private sector investments in cases where the main grid is extended into existing mini grid service areas. This regulatory clarity is expected to improve bankability and accelerate project deployment across participating developers.
With its selection under the programme, Royal Power and Energy Limited is positioned to play a growing role in Nigeria’s distributed energy transition, as the country seeks to scale reliable, renewable and investment ready electrification solutions across both urban fringe and underserved communities.
Author: Bryan Groenendaal
