Schneider Electric has identified high tariffs as a major obstacle to electricity usage in rural communities across West Africa. The company aims to provide solutions to facilitate the adoption of electrification projects in these underserved areas struggling with access to reliable and affordable energy.
Teina Teibowei, Commercial Lead of Microgrid at Schneider Electric, emphasized the challenge posed by high tariffs, particularly in communities with limited economic opportunities. She highlighted that even basic lighting can be prohibitively expensive in such areas, discouraging the uptake of electricity usage.
Moreover, Ajibola Akindele, Country President of Schneider Electric West Africa, stressed the importance of addressing affordability concerns and creating economic opportunities to foster a culture of energy consumption. By doing so, he believes that the true potential of rural electrification in West Africa can be unlocked, empowering communities.
The statement from Schneider Electric comes amid discussions about electricity subsidy sustainability in Nigeria, with the Minister for Power, Adebayo Adelabu, suggesting that the federal government may no longer be able to sustain such subsidies. This further underscores the need for innovative approaches to address the affordability challenges associated with rural electrification in the region.