Electricity: Delta Targets $158m Renewable Energy Investment, 31,200 New Jobs

Delta State is positioning itself as a hub for renewable energy, with potential investments estimated at $158 million and the creation of over 31,200 new jobs through private sector-led mini-grid projects.

This projection was revealed by the Executive Director of the Rural Electrification Fund (REF), Hon. Engr. Doris Uboh, during the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) State-by-State Roundtable Engagement with Delta State, held in Abuja.

According to Uboh, bridging electricity gaps across Delta State would unlock massive opportunities, especially in underserved local government areas like Ndokwa East, Burutu, Ughelli South, Oshimili North, and Warri South West, which have some of the highest numbers of unserved residents. She noted that sustainable electrification would not only power households and businesses but also stimulate economic growth, attract investors, and position Delta as a renewable energy hub.

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, speaking at the roundtable, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to renewable energy as a catalyst for industrial growth, rural development, and inclusive opportunities. He emphasized that electricity access remains critical to productivity, investment attraction, and improving livelihoods.

Oborevwori disclosed that Delta has developed a Decentralized Energy Plan to power key government institutions including the Government House, new State Secretariat Complex, Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba Airport, and state-owned universities, through embedded renewable systems. Plans are also underway to extend electricity to rural communities and schools.

He assured investors of a friendly business climate, transparency, and sustainable returns, stressing that the demand for off-grid and mini-grid renewable solutions in rural areas, schools, hospitals, and small enterprises is “massive and growing.”

Managing Director/CEO of the REA, Abba Aliyu, commended Delta’s forward-looking electrification strategy, anchored on distributed renewable energy, mini-grids, and private sector participation. He noted that REA has $1.16 billion available to support such projects nationwide, but emphasized the need for strong partnerships with states and investors.

Aliyu also cited an investor considering a $53 billion 600MW solar panel assembly plant, urging Delta to convince the firm to site the project in the state.

Chief Economic Adviser to the Governor, Dr. Barry Gbe, described the roundtable as a platform to foster collaboration and accelerate Delta’s transition to a sustainable energy system. A Memorandum of Understanding was signed between REA, RESCOs, and the Delta State Government to formalize renewable energy investments.

Governor Oborevwori summed it up,“As fossil fuels become increasingly expensive and unsustainable, Delta State sees renewable energy as the future. This is a win-win situation where investors make profit while Delta gets powered.”