Electricity deficit: Firms to light up rural communities with solar panels

From Okwe Obi, Abuja

In a bid to boost medium and small scale enterprises and to light up rural communities, Access Bank Plc and Asolar Limited have partnered to provide affordable green energy solutions across the country.

The Bank’s Deputy Managing Director, Retail Bank North, Victor Etuokwu, told journalists during the launch of Access Green Energy, yesterday, in Abuja, said the partnership would fill in the deficit in electricity supply.

Represented by the Regional Director of Branch Banking, Abuja, Neka Adogu, Etuokwu said: “Currently in Nigeria, owners of SMEs spend huge sums in procuring generating sets, purchasing fuel, and the maintenance of generators to operate their business successfully.

“Through this partnership, we embark on a transformative journey to introduce cost-effective and dependable solar-powered solutions tailored specifically for small and medium businesses.

“By harnessing the potential of solar energy, we aim to untether these businesses from the shackles of unreliable power sources and offer promising alternatives to traditional generators reliant on expensive and polluting fossil fuels.

“By providing access to affordable solar-powered solutions, we endeavour to significantly reduce operational costs, enhance productivity, and catalyse growth for these enterprises.

“This partnership is a testament to our dedication to providing sustainable and transformative solutions, empowering SMEs to thrive in a more efficient and eco-friendly business environment.

“The most exciting aspect of this groundbreaking initiative extends far beyond SMEs – it is also a game-changer for everyone.

“Access Bank PLC’s collaboration with ASOLAR is not merely transforming power solutions; it is utilising our Access CLOSA Agent Network platform as the digital payment provider.

“This integration aims to facilitate the widespread adoption of digital banking and financial services, ensuring access even in the most remote corners of our nation.

“We envision an ecosystem where financial inclusion thrives alongside access to power.”