. . .As newly appointed REB boss unveils 12 – Point – Agenda
*State to establish mini power grid, resuscitate decayed energy distribution infrastructure
In order to cushion the impact of fuel subsidy removal across Katsina State, plans are underway to establish energy conversion centre in each of the three senatorial districts of the state.
Disclosing this shortly after he assumed office and flagged off four projects as the General Manager, Katsina State Rural Electricity Board (REB), Engr. Abubakar Abdullahi Matazu, said his administration is set to assist the people of the state to drastically reduce the cost of running their vehicles, power generators and various machines through conversion from petrol or diesel to gas (Compressed Natural Gas) or to electric based.
The REB boss said the idea behind the projects is one out of of his 12 – point – agenda to bring about a lot of innovations and revive the electricity board.
While expressing the confidence that the conversion of commercial tricycles and motorcycles among others would greatly curb the effect of fuel subsidy removal on the populace, Matazu disclosed that studies showed about N6000 being spent on petrol daily by an average tricycle operator, otherwise known as KEKE NAPEP rider, would be enough to power the vehicle for about two weeks.
He assured that other motorists as well as owners of power generators and different machines would also reap similar dividends when the centres begin the conversion exercises.
“Yesterday was my first day in office actually; I came in with about four projects: Conversion of KEKE NAPEP from running on petrol to CNG as well as conversion of motorcycles, grinding machines and power generators. It is a great success actually,” he opined.
Besides, the REB boss has promised among others in his 12 – point – Agenda: Resuscitation of all decayed energy distribution infrastructure in the state; establishment of mini (hybrid) grids; special attention to home-based solar systems as well as Public Private Partnership (PPP) engagements on energy generation and distribution.
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