Schneider Electric, the global leader in energy management and automation, has launched its Villaya Flex microgrid solution built for inclusive access to energy in rural and remote communities across Nigeria.
Speaking at the launch event, Thomas Bonicel, Commercial Director of Schneider Electric’s Energy Access business in Africa said, “Access to reliable and affordable energy is essential for powering healthcare, education and livelihoods in rural Nigeria. With over 95 million people lacking access to electricity, innovative solutions are needed to bridge the energy gap.
“With Villaya Flex, we are providing a scalable and sustainable microgrid technology tailored for Nigeria’s intervention programs to help accelerate energy access for communities currently relying on expensive and polluting diesel generators or kerosene lamps.”
Villaya Flex is a pre-engineered, pre-wired and containerized microgrid system that integrates solar PV panels, lithium-ion battery energy storage and an intelligent microgrid controller.
The scalable solution is available in modular sizes from 50kW to 100kW to suit the energy needs of villages and hamlets. It has been designed for easy deployment, operation and maintenance in the harsh climatic conditions prevalent in rural Nigeria.
This solution will help in the achievement of Schneider Electric’s goal to create 139 million jobs in the energy sector by 2030, resolving the 2.8 million global electrician shortage across regions.
“Schneider Electric prioritizes sustainability, efficiency, and digital partnerships in everything we do,” said Ajibola Akindele, Country President, West Africa, Schneider Electric. “With over a million partners, we are able to extend our reach and deliver our solutions globally. This strategy brings us closer to our customers and allows us to reach even the most remote communities, just as in the case of our new product, Villaya Flex.”
Teina Teibowei, Microgrid Commercial Lead for Schneider Electric West Africa said, “As the technology partner for many World Bank and donor-funded projects such as the Nigeria Electrification Project, Villaya Flex allows us to work closely with local developers, NGOs and implementing agencies.
We are focused on providing end-to-end support from design and specification to commissioning, training and after-sales service to ensure reliable and efficient operation of these microgrids over their lifetime. Our goal is to empower local communities through access to clean and sustainable energy.”
Schneider Electric aims to support the electrification of remote communities through strategic partnerships that will help subsidize Villaya Flex which can scale access to energy for productive uses and livelihoods.
Accessible only for communal use through tariffs, this product will contribute towards achieving Nigeria’s goal of providing electricity access for 95 million citizens by 2030.
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