The European Union (EU) is collaborating with the Plateau State Government to explore the potential for small hydropower generation at Assop Falls, which has the capacity to generate about 2MWp of electricity.
Inga Stefanowicz, Head of Green and Digital Economy at the EU Delegation in Nigeria and ECOWAS, highlighted the partnership with the federal Ministry of Power to diversify electricity generation and provide clean, affordable energy to Plateau State.
This initiative aims to power agro-processing activities, enhance energy usage, and boost the state’s economy.
The Managing Director of the Plateau State Energy Corporation, Ponzing Gamde, disclosed that the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) is conducting a feasibility study to determine the site’s power generation potential.
He emphasized that the project would also improve cultural activities by ensuring uninterrupted power supply.
Hon. Engr. Owen Karyit Dagogot, a member of the Plateau State House of Assembly, expressed support, citing the site’s strong foundation as an advantage for development.
Sam Gyang Yakubu, Director of Technical Services at the Plateau State Energy Corporation, noted that while dam construction often takes time, the project timeline could be completed within two to three years, with no anticipated challenges for power evacuation.
Dina Temitope, a representative from the Federal Ministry of Power, underscored the national significance of the project, aligning it with the Vision 30:30 goal to generate 30 gigawatts of electricity by 2030, with 30% coming from renewable sources.
Godfrey Ogbemudia, Programme Manager for Energy and Circular Economy at the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, stressed the importance of effectively utilizing funds to power agricultural hubs. Eckhard Heine, Head of GIZ’s Sustainability Energy Access component, emphasized collaboration with the National Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to disseminate information for state-level engagement.
Technical Adviser at GIZ, Alexander Akolo, highlighted the need to review the recently passed Plateau State Electricity Law and support the development of a mini-grid policy for the state.