Katsina renewable energy projects reach over 30MW, powering government facilities and hospitals under Governor Radda’s energy reforms

Katsina State has deployed more than 30 megawatts of renewable energy in less than two and a half years as part of a long-term strategy to reduce energy poverty and expand electricity access.

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Dr. Hafiz Ahmed, Special Adviser on Power and Energy to Governor Dikko Umar Radda, disclosed this during an interview with journalists on Thursday in Katsina.

He said the administration’s energy reforms are guided by a comprehensive roadmap developed in partnership with Power Africa, based on a two-decade energy needs assessment.

Ahmed noted that Katsina has become a leading subnational player in renewable energy deployment, with all projects implemented entirely using solar and other sustainable sources, in line with Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan and the 2060 net-zero target.

“100 per cent of what has been deployed in Katsina State is renewable energy. That is why solar-powered streetlights are replacing grid and diesel-powered systems across the state,” he said.

Government facilities, including the State Secretariat, Government House, and general hospitals, have transitioned from diesel generators to solar systems, resulting in substantial cost savings.

The administration has procured 20.1MW of solar power for 11 critical facilities that previously accounted for 93 per cent of energy expenses.

Ahmed added that solar projects extend to agriculture, healthcare, education, and small businesses. Standalone solar-powered systems will serve 361 primary healthcare centres across all wards.

General hospitals such as Katsina General, Kankiya General, Amadi Rimi Orthopaedic, and Turai Yar’Adua Maternity are now fully off-grid.

Education has also benefited, with solar installations approved for tertiary institutions and selected boarding schools, supporting e-learning initiatives.

The adviser confirmed that the State Executive Council approved the purchase of 200 distribution transformers at $1.5 million in partnership with Kano Electricity Distribution Company (KEDCO), with Katsina providing 50 per cent of the cost, increasing its shareholding in KEDCO to 17 per cent.

Hydropower generation is also planned at Lanjewa Dam through a partnership with the French Government and Ocean Energy, with feasibility studies complete and approvals pending.

Ahmed warned that vandalism threatens progress and urged residents to protect public infrastructure.

He also noted that the House of Assembly has passed the Katsina State Electricity Regulatory Commission bill, awaiting the governor’s assent to enforce proper regulation.

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“With total electricity demand estimated at 70MW, Katsina has moved from zero to above 30MW in less than two and a half years. At this pace, we expect to reach 70MW in the coming years,” Ahmed said.