The Federal Government has unveiled new guidelines for the safe and efficient interconnection of solar mini-grids to electricity distribution networks as part of efforts to expand electricity access and accelerate renewable energy deployment across Nigeria.

The guidelines, titled Guidelines for Interconnecting Solar Mini-Grids to Distribution Networks, were developed by the Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA) with technical support from the Nigerian Energy Support Programme (NESP).

Speaking at the launch in Abuja, NEMSA Managing Director and Chief Electrical Inspector of the Federation, Engr. Olusegun Adesayo, described the document as a major milestone in Nigeria’s quest for a safe, reliable, sustainable and inclusive electricity supply system.

Adesayo said solar mini-grids have become a key solution for electrifying unserved and underserved communities, noting that their growing deployment requires clear technical and operational standards within the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry.

According to him, the guidelines provide procedures, technical requirements, interconnection models and operational standards for linking solar mini-grids to distribution networks without compromising grid stability, power quality and public safety.

He said the framework would reduce uncertainties for investors and developers while strengthening collaboration among Distribution Companies, mini-grid developers, regulators and other stakeholders.

Adesayo added that the guidelines align with the Electricity Act 2023, the Mini-Grid Regulations 2026 and relevant international standards, expressing confidence that they would boost investor confidence and encourage the deployment of interconnected renewable energy systems nationwide.

Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Power, Alhaji Mahmuda Mamman, represented by the Director of Distribution, Mustapha Abba, said renewable energy solutions, particularly solar mini-grids, remain central to government efforts to improve electricity access, enhance energy security and stimulate economic growth.

He noted that interconnected and isolated mini-grids are already providing reliable electricity to communities and businesses previously underserved by the national grid.

Mamman said the new guidelines provide an important framework for ensuring the safe, reliable and efficient integration of solar mini-grids into distribution networks across the country.

He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to providing safe, affordable and sustainable electricity, adding that renewable energy remains critical to achieving that objective.

The guidelines were developed with technical support from the Nigerian Energy Support Programme, co-funded by the European Union and the Government of Germany and implemented by GIZ in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Power.

Programme Manager, Energy and Circular Economy at the Delegation of the European Union to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Mr Godfrey Ogbemudia, said the guidelines would improve consistency and strengthen investor confidence in interconnected mini-grid projects.

Similarly, Head of Development Cooperation at the German Embassy in Nigeria, Dr Karin Jasen, reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s efforts to expand energy access, strengthen institutions and promote sustainable renewable energy development.