Katsina signs MoU with two French Companies on Power, Wind Farm

Katsina state Governor, Dr Dikko Umaru Radda, has signed two Memoranda of Understanding MoUs with two French companies to expand the state’s access to sustainable electricity and also revamp the 10 Megawatts Wind Farm in Lambar Rimi which had been comatose for nearly  two decades. Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed who disclosed this in a statement issued Sunday in Abuja said Dr Radda and his Special Adviser on Power and Energy, Dr. Hafiz Ibrahim Ahmed specifically signed a strategic MoU with Ocean Solutions Energie to expand the state’s access to sustainable electricity. The duo also signed an MoU with Vergnet Groupe — the Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMS) in Paris, France, to revamp the Wind Mill. 
“Ocean Solutions Energie –a France based company specialized in co-development of renewable energy projects in Africa was represented by its Chairman, Mr Minkaila Salami who shared a vision with Katsina State Government to advance renewable energy solutions, supporting Nigeria’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2060 and expanding access to sustainable electricity. In line with these objectives, Governor Radda revealed plans to establish a mini hydroelectric power station as part of a pilot project”, said Mohammed. The Governor who noted that the initiative will focus on providing reliable, renewable energy to local communities, said it will also serve as model for future hydroelectric developments across the State’s 43 dams. He said the pilot project located in Danja Dam is designed to provide energy to critical local infrastructure, including irrigation systems, a water treatment plant, small and medium-scale enterprises and households.
On the Wind Farm, Dr Radda said the State Government is committed to working closely with Vergnet Groupe to rehabilitate “this vital asset and restore its capacity to support the State’s growing energy needs”.  Emphasizing the importance of the wind farm to the region’s energy infrastructure, the governor said his administration remained dedicated to ensuring its sustainable operation in line with Nigeria’s Renewable Energy Master Plan and the 2060 net-zero goals. Additionally, the Governor included plans for a 10MW Solar Farm to complement the wind project. “This will provide clean and renewable energy to power approximately to 4,400 homes across Katsina State. These projects are integral to Katsina State’s vision to become a leading renewable energy hub in Nigeria and contribute to the country’s broader transition to a sustainable energy future,” Governor Radda said.  The new MoU aligns with the Electricity Act of 2023 which emphasized decentralized energy solutions, integration of renewable sources into Nigeria power grid and fulfill the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 7 on affordable and clean energy.