The Delta Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu, has said that the Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori’s renewable energy initiative has the capacity to revolutionise the state economy.
Aniagwu disclosed this in a statement issued in Asaba and made available to newsmen yesterday.
The statement dwelt extensively on the importance of the 14th State-by-State Roundtable Engagement between the Rural Electrification Agency and Delta stakeholders in Abuja.
According to Aniagwu, Delta is set to witness a major economic transformation as its push for renewable energy gathers momentum, with thousands of jobs expected to spring up across rural communities.
“The renewable energy initiative of Gov. Oborevwori’s administration will empower small businesses, energise schools and hospitals, and integrate rural dwellers into the state’s economic mainstream,” he added.
He explained that the state’s energy roadmap was designed to bridge the development gap between urban and rural areas.
“Once rural communities are electrified through solar and other renewable energy sources, barbers, hairdressers, vulcanisers, dry cleaners, and other entrepreneurs will no longer be trapped in the cycle of buying and repairing generators.
“That savings goes directly into expanding their businesses and creating jobs.
“It’s a direct link between clean energy and prosperity,” Aniagwu explained.
He further stated that reliable power would also transform social services.
“Schools and health facilities, many of which currently operate in darkness, would become functional, enabling libraries, laboratories, theatres, and pharmacies to serve their communities effectively.
“Drugs and vaccines will be preserved, hospitals will run smoothly, and schools will become centres of learning and innovation,” the commissioner added.
He argued that off-grid solutions are smarter and cheaper for far-flung communities, as mini-grids would eliminate the need for expensive transmission infrastructure and reduce vandalism of power lines and transformers.
He also maintained that Delta had already begun deploying renewable energy in select hospitals, while more projects were in the pipeline as investors had expressed readiness to partner with the state.
“Renewable energy is not just about light, it’s about jobs, safety, and inclusiveness.
“With this initiative, our rural-based brothers and sisters will no longer be spectators in the economy but active participants in building a stronger Delta,” Aniagwu said.