KEDCO signs deal with logistics firm to develop solar energy project

Kaduna Electric Distribution Company (KEDCO) says it has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with J-Marine Logistics Limited for the development of a 100 megawatts (MW) solar energy project with an integrated battery energy storage system (BESS).

Speaking at the MoU signing event on Friday in Kaduna, Aminu Suleiman, chairman of KEDCO, said the initiative represents a bold step toward addressing power supply challenges and establishing a foundation for inclusive economic growth and development.

He said the collaboration aims to deliver cleaner energy, improve power supply reliability, and boost industrial productivity.

Suleiman said the initiative targets industrial customers, stressing that the focus will remain on areas where return on investment is guaranteed.

He described the MoU signing as a significant milestone in achieving sustainable and reliable energy within KEDCO’s franchise areas of Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara, and Kaduna.

“This initiative is a bold step in addressing the power supply challenges in our region and lays the foundation for inclusive economic growth and development,” Suleiman said.

“The initiative targets our industrial customer; however, it is not that we are not going to give residential, but our primary focus will be where we have a return of the investment or wherever the return of the investment is guaranteed.

“Thank our partners, the J-Marine Logistics, for sharing in our commitment to powering communities and transforming lives. Your collaboration brings cleaner energy, enhances good stability, and has greater industrial productivity.”

The KEDCO chairman said the support of stakeholders has always been the cornerstone of the company’s progress.

“We are excited to embark on this journey with you as we chart a course towards a brighter, more resilient future,” he said.

“Today marks the beginning of our strength to resolve to bring sustainable energy to every home, industry, and institution within our reach.”

In his remarks, Mohammed Shafiq, chairman of J-Marine Logistics, said the company will provide 100MW solar panels for Kaduna and neighbouring regions.

“Our plan is to provide 100 megawatts of solar panels in Kaduna and neighboring countries,” Shafiq said.

“Once that is done, we will be discussing electric meters, which we are already assembling in Nigeria. Simultaneously, we are discussing producing solar panels here in Kaduna with a capacity of up to 500 megawatts per year. That is our plan.”

He said the company can produce as many meters as needed, ensuring KEDCO has better control over revenue collection.

“We can give as many meters as they need. They can need 100,000 or 500,000 meters per year. We will be able to produce,” Shafiq said.

He added that his company is also ready to bring power plants to Kaduna and nearby countries.

J. Marine Logistics Limited is a Nigerian company that holds a concession to operate and maintain a floating dock acquired by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA).

The company focuses on shipping, power, mining, equipment, and trading solutions.