The Katsina State Government plans to establish a mini hydropower plant after signing a strategic memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Ocean Solutions Energy to expand access to sustainable electricity.

Governor Umaru Dikko Raddawho made this known on Sunday in Abuja, explained that the initiative was aimed at strengthening electricity supply in the state.

Radda and Special Adviser to the Governor on Power and Energy, Dr. Hafiz Ibrahim Ahmed, signed the MoU following critical engagement with development partners and industry experts at Paris, France.

The Governor noted that the mini hydroelectric plant is part of a pilot project to actualize the objective of the MoU with Ocean Solutions Energy.

Ocean Solutions Energie – a French company specializing in the co-development of renewable energy projects in Africa – was represented by its Chairman, Mr. Minkaila Salami, who shared with the Katsina State Government a vision aimed at making advancing renewable energy solutions, supporting Nigeria’s commitment. achieve net zero emissions by 2060 and expand access to sustainable electricity.

The governor, in a statement made on Sunday by his media aide, Mr. Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, explained that the initiative will focus on providing reliable and renewable energy to local communities and serve as a model for future hydropower developments in the state’s 43 dams.

“The Katsina State Government is committed to providing financial support to ensure the successful installation and long-term sustainability of the power plant,” the governor assured.

Radda added that the pilot project, located at Danja Dam, is designed to provide energy to critical local infrastructure, including irrigation systems, a water treatment plant, small and medium enterprises (SMEs ) and households.

The new MoU aligns with the Electricity Act, 2023, which focuses on decentralized energy solutions, integration of renewable sources into Nigeria’s power grid and achieving the target of Sustainable Development (SDG) 7 on clean and affordable energy.