From Moshood Karim
The Edo State government, through its Ministry of Mining and Energy, on Thursday organized a one-day workshop focusing on renewable energy solutions for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and healthcare institutions.
The initiative aims to keep the public informed about the government’s efforts to address the high cost of energy, a significant challenge hindering the growth of small businesses in the State.
The Commissioner for Mining and Energy, Ojiefoh Enaholo, explained the State’s achievements in providing alternative energy sources to its citizens and supporting the business ecosystem.
“This programme is designed to train participants on how to tap into the government’s renewable energy initiatives,” Enaholo stated.
He also emphasized the State’s ongoing efforts to eliminate gas flaring, particularly in oil-producing areas like Gelegele.
“The State is conducting extensive campaigns to stop gas flaring. We are focusing on gas extraction and gas flaring control, with companies like BTT in Gelegele and First Metro from Lagos leading the way.”
Enaholo further noted the State’s progress in electricity generation and distribution, made possible by the newly amended electricity law.
“Previously, electricity was on the Exclusive List, limiting our power over NEPA and PHCN. But the governor identified a constitutional provision allowing the State to generate power for its facilities, leading to the significant strides we’ve made since July 22nd when the Edo State Electricity law was birthed,” he explained.
Anthony Okungbowa, the Head of Service in Edo State, echoed the Commissioner’s sentiments, praising the Obaseki-led administration’s commitment to revolutionizing the power sector, particularly in renewable energy.
“The government, especially the Ministry of Mining and Energy, is working tirelessly to ensure reliable electricity, particularly from alternative energy sources. This workshop is crucial in sensitizing the public, especially SMEs, about the impact and benefits of these initiatives,” Okungbowa said.
The event also featured a technical presentation by Livoltek, a company dedicated to helping small businesses reduce energy costs through affordable, high-quality hybrid solutions.
Representing Livoltek, Timi Shi outlined the company’s portfolio, which includes PV inverters, hybrid inverters, battery inverters, storage batteries, EV chargers, and a remote management system.
Commissioner for Finance, Adaze Aguele-Kalu, stressed the importance of developing the right energy infrastructure for small businesses, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“SMEs contribute about 49 percent to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), making their sustainability vital. Renewable energy is the future, especially given the current challenges with fossil fuels. This workshop is a significant step towards ensuring that SMEs have the power they need to thrive,” she said.
Aguele-Kalu further underscored the importance of SMEs to the economy, noting that they employ 84 percent of Nigeria’s workforce.
“You are crucial to the economy. This workshop is designed to address the energy challenges you face, which is essential for the continued growth and success of your businesses,” she told the participants.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Mining and Energy, Omoruyi Ese Martina, expressed her gratitude to Governor Obaseki and Commissioner Enaholo for their unwavering support of SMEs in the State.
“Commissioner Enaholo’s dedication to the Ministry’s progress is commendable. His tireless efforts have made this workshop and many other initiatives possible,” she said.
Participants at the workshop, in interviews with Uptown Press, expressed their appreciation to the governor for providing them with an opportunity to engage with the government and discuss their energy-related business challenges.
They noted that the workshop had given them valuable insights and potential solutions to the energy crisis impacting their operations.
