The Foundation for Partnership Initiatives in the Niger Delta (PIND), in partnership with A4&T Power Solutions Limited, conducted a week-long renewable energy technology demonstration and field trial that began on April 24, 2025, in Ugbo-Nla, Ilaje Local Government Area, Ondo State. The event introduced innovative clean energy solutions aimed at promoting the productive use of electricity to strengthen rural livelihoods and resilience.
Led by A4&T Power Solutions Limited, a partner under PIND’s Access to Energy (A2E) program, the event featured a live demonstration of battery-powered outboard engines designed for passenger boats. A key highlight was a modular charging and battery-swapping station with a total capacity of 11.4 kW, capable of simultaneously supporting 4 to 5 boats. Powered by existing solar mini-grids, the system exemplifies the potential of decentralized, clean energy infrastructure.
This innovation presents a scalable, low-emission mobility solution for underserved coastal communities and aligns with PIND’s commitment to advancing the productive use of energy (PUE) through strategic local partnerships.
Powering Local Economies through Clean Energy
The demonstration offered practical insights into Productive Use of Energy (PUE) solutions that support e-mobility and power small businesses in riverine communities. In Ugbo Nla, the battery-powered outboard engines, integrated with the existing mini-grid infrastructure, provide a cost-effective and cleaner alternative for passenger transport. Conversely, the introduction of charging and swapping hubs significantly boosts the efficiency of the mini-grid by optimizing the use of generated power, extending its benefits beyond basic electrification to support mobility and economic activity within the community.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Effiong Essien, PIND’s Acting Executive Director, noted: “This initiative demonstrates the power of decentralized renewable energy to fuel productivity, support livelihoods, and improve lives. It’s a scalable, inclusive model for energy access in the Niger Delta.”
Mr. Ayodeji Ademilua, CEO of A4&T Power Solutions, emphasized the importance of context-driven innovation: “Our work in Ilaje, with PIND’s support, proves that clean energy can be a catalyst for economic transformation in coastal communities.”
Strengthening Community Engagement and Support
To reinforce inclusive stakeholder engagement, the A2E team, Dr. Effiong Essien, and A4&T representatives paid a courtesy visit to the traditional ruler of Ugbo-nla ahead of the demonstration. The chieftain expressed strong support for the initiative, citing the positive impact of previous PIND interventions, and voiced confidence that the new Productive Use of Energy (PUE) solutions would further enhance livelihoods in Ugbo-nla and neighboring communities.
Support from the broader community was echoed by leaders of the Maritime Transporters, and Tourist Boat Operators Associations, as well as the Women Leader, who highlighted the project’s potential to transform livelihoods in the riverine area.
Building on Impact: Scaling Energy Access across Ondo State
This initiative builds on earlier interventions by PIND, which played a pivotal role in facilitating A4&T Power Solutions’ entry into coastal electrification in Ilaje LGA, starting with Gbagira community. Since then, A4&T has extended its reach to five additional coastal communities and has further scaled its impact to peri-urban areas across Ondo State.
To date, A4&T Power Solutions has extended its reach to over 13 communities in Ondo State, providing renewable energy solutions to areas including Ugbo-nla, Odofado, Awoye, Laosho, Orisunbare, Fagbo, Iyasan, Obejedo, Oloruntedo, Lomileju, Araromi-Obu, Epe, and Ilugha. Among these, Ugbo-nla, Odofado, Molutehin, Awoye, and Obejedo are coastal communities in Ilaje LGA—historically unserved and constrained by limited access to energy infrastructure.
This collaborative journey underscores the transformative potential of strategic partnerships in expanding clean energy access to remote coastal and peri-urban communities—laying a strong foundation for inclusive development and climate resilience.
Through its A2E project, PIND continues to work with partners like A4T to scale clean energy technologies that meet real community needs, empower local entrepreneurs, and enhance the resilience of rural value chains.
Driving Inclusive, Sustainable Development
The demonstration convened community stakeholders, energy experts, and local leaders for technical sessions and discussions on renewable energy adoption, ownership, and sustainability.
As part of its long term-term strategy, PIND is committed to expanding climate-smart, market-based energy solutions that create inclusive growth and sustainable impact across the Niger Delta.
From powering boats to energizing businesses, this initiative is more than a tech showcase–it’s a glimpse into a cleaner, more resilient future for underserved communities.
