The Head of Green and Digital Economy at the EU Delegation in Nigeria and ECOWAS, Inga Stefanowicz, says the European Union is exploring the potential for establishing a hydropower generation site at Asso Falls in Plateau State in northern Nigeria.
This hydropower project, which is expected to generate 2MW of electricity is part of the EU’s mandate and partnership with the state to provide clean, safe, affordable, and renewable energy sources to the people of the state, especially towards supporting sustainable agricultural practices, industry, tourism, and boosting the economy of the state.
Speaking during the delegation’s visit to the state to assess the Asso falls on Monday, Stefanowicz emphasised the importance of collaboration with Nigeria’s Ministry of Power to integrate the project into Nigeria’s larger electricity market development.
“With electricity generation, we will have agriculture, industry, and tourism. That’s a very good combination,” Stefanowicz said, highlighting how these sectors could drive growth together.
She further disclosed that the EU is working with the Plateau state government and other stakeholders to evaluate the technical, financial, and environmental feasibility of the hydropower project.
“Plateau State, with its rich agricultural potential, could benefit greatly from reliable energy, boosting crop production and agro-processing,” the statement by the EU quoted Stefanowicz as saying.
In his address, the Managing Director of the Plateau State Energy Corporation, Ponzing Gamde, stated that the United Nations Industrial Development Organization is conducting a feasibility study to determine the potential capacity of the hydropower project.
“UNIDO is currently conducting a feasibility study here. They have done their preliminary data collection and will now come up with a design to know the potential capacity that can be generated from here,” he said.
Further highlighting the benefits of the project, Gamde said, “With this power, there will also be an improvement of cultural activities. The power will ensure activities don’t stop at certain points.”
GIK/APA