The Edo State Government has unveiled plans to install charging stations in strategic locations across the state as it prepares for the rollout of electric vehicles in the first phase of its clean energy project.

This was disclosed during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Oando Clean Energy Limited, for the rollout of clean energy projects including an electric bus transit service and development of a 175MW wind energy project.

During the signing of the MoU in Benin, Governor Godwin Obaseki, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Osarodion Ogie Esq., said the state government was committed to giving every community in the state access to clean energy.

According to him, “that (clean energy) is where the world is going. And we are happy to be front runners among the states.

“We have found a partner in Oando Energy. We are happy, and we will make sure that we will keep our side of the agreement.”

The Edo State Commissioner for Mining and Energy, Dr. Ojeifoh Enaholo, said the electric bus scheme, to be implemented in phases, will commence with five buses for the take-off phase.

The commissioner noted that charging stations for the vehicle batteries would be installed with all necessary facilities.

He added that the wind energy project will also commence with a pilot scheme in a bid to revolutionize the electricity sector in the state.