- The EU plans a 2MW hydropower project at Asso Falls in Plateau State.
- The project aims to boost agriculture, industry, and tourism.
- Stakeholders are assessing feasibility and technical requirements.
The European Union (EU) is evaluating the possibility of establishing a 2MW hydropower generation site at Asso Falls in Plateau State as part of its commitment to providing clean, renewable energy. The initiative aims to support agriculture, industry, and tourism while contributing to the state’s economic growth.
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Eko Hot Blog reports that the Head of Green and Digital Economy at the EU Delegation in Nigeria and ECOWAS, Inga Stefanowicz, made this announcement during a visit to assess the site.
She emphasized the need for collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Power to integrate the project into Nigeria’s broader electricity market. “With electricity generation, we will have agriculture, industry, and tourism. That’s a very good combination,” she stated.
The EU is working closely with the Plateau State Government and key stakeholders to evaluate the project’s technical, financial, and environmental feasibility.
“Plateau State, with its rich agricultural potential, could benefit greatly from reliable energy, boosting crop production and agro-processing,” Stefanowicz added.
The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) is conducting a feasibility study to determine the potential energy output.
Managing Director of the Plateau State Energy Corporation, Ponzing Gamde, explained, “UNIDO has done their preliminary data collection and will now come up with a design to determine the potential capacity.”
Gamde also highlighted the impact the project could have on cultural activities. “With this power, activities won’t have to stop at certain times. It will enhance social and economic life,” he said.
Hon. Engr. Owen Karyit Dagogot, a Plateau State House of Assembly member, expressed full support for the project, stating, “This place is going to be utilized to its full potential.”
From a technical perspective, Sam Gyang Yakubu, Director of Technical Services at the Plateau State Energy Corporation, noted that dam construction usually takes time but estimated this project could be completed in two to three years. “Evacuation is not going to be a challenge based on the current layout,” he assured.
Dina Temitope, representing the Federal Ministry of Power, emphasized the national importance of the initiative. “For us at the ministry, we have the vision to generate 30 gigawatts of electricity by 2030, with 30% coming from renewable sources,” he explained.
Godfrey Ogbemudia, Programme Manager for Energy and Circular Economy at the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to ensuring funds are properly utilized.
“It’s not just a donation; this power can be transported to any agricultural hub where pre-processing takes place,” he noted.
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The project also aligns with Plateau State’s recent electricity reforms. Technical Adviser at GIZ, Alexander Akolo, noted that the recently passed State Electricity Law includes areas for improvement. “We can support reviewing it to develop other policies like a mini-grid strategy for the state,” he added.
As discussions continue, the project remains a promising step toward sustainable energy development in Plateau State.
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