International Solar Alliance And Abia State, Nigeria Launch Landmark Mini-Grid Regulations To Expand Clean Energy Access

The International Solar Alliance (ISA), in partnership with the Government of Abia State, successfully hosted a Validation Session on the Abia State Mini-Grid Regulations today at Sun Heaven Hotel. This event marked an important step toward creating a strong regulatory framework that will expand clean energy access, encourage investment, and promote community-driven growth in Nigeria.

The Mini-Grid Regulations were developed jointly by ISA and the Abia State Government, with technical guidance from consulting firm INENSUS GmbH. Open for public comment until August 19, 2025, the regulations include detailed rules for permitting, responsibilities of key stakeholders, connecting mini-grids to existing distribution networks, setting tariffs, and ensuring structured participation from local communities.

Engr. Ikechukwu Monday, Honourable Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities, Abia State, said, “This is a defining moment for Abia State’s energy sector. By introducing clear and transparent regulations for mini-grids, we are sending a strong signal to investors, communities, and development partners that Abia is ready for a clean energy future. These regulations will unlock opportunities for private sector participation, create jobs, and most importantly, bring reliable electricity to households, businesses, and social institutions that have long been underserved. This is in line with the mandate of the Abia State Government led by H.E. Dr. Alex Chioma Otti (OFR) of improving access to reliable electricity to communities and businesses in the state as an enabler to the industrialisation of the state.”

Mr Ashish Khanna, Director General, ISA mentioned, “The validation of Abia State’s Mini-Grid Regulations is a pivotal step in advancing Nigeria’s clean energy journey. ISA is pleased to support this effort as part of our broader Country Partnership Framework with Nigeria, which seeks to fast-track solar adoption through focused, country-led collaboration. Through initiatives such as scaling solar for agriculture, rooftops, and mini-grids; establishing a STAR Centre for capacity building; strengthening regulatory frameworks; and supporting the Distributed Renewable Energy Nigeria Fund, ISA remains committed to working alongside Nigeria in creating an enabling environment for investment and delivering reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy to communities.”

Ms. Onyi Iyizoba, Legal specialist, ISA stated, “Robust regulations are the backbone of sustainable energy growth. By putting in place clear, transparent, and inclusive provisions, Abia State is creating the conditions needed to accelerate mini-grid deployment, build investor confidence, and ensure that communities are at the heart of the energy transition. ISA looks forward to continuing its partnership with Nigeria to replicate and scale such frameworks across the country.”

Over 150 participants attended the validation session, including government officials, private sector developers, financiers, community leaders, and international energy experts. Discussions focused on reviewing public feedback and refining the regulations to make them practical, clear, and future-ready providing certainty for investors while protecting community interests. On 10 September 2025, the finalized Mini-Grid Regulations were formally presented to the Hon’ble Governor of Abia State in a dedicated session. This handover represents the culmination of months of collaborative effort and sets the stage for implementing these new rules to drive clean energy development in the region.