Project Overview

Exergie embarked on a transformative rural electrification project in Ikeduru, Iho-Dimeze, Imo State—a town spanning 170 square kilometers. Our goal was to bring sustainable and reliable solar-powered lighting to the community, particularly in key public areas, markets, and farmlands.This initiative is part of our four-phase electrification plan, with Phase 1 covering one-quarter of the total perimeter. By installing 200 German-engineered 120W exterior lights, we have significantly enhanced security, nighttime trade, and agricultural activities.

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Needs Assessment

Ikeduru, Iho-Dimeze, like many rural communities in Nigeria, struggled with limited access to reliable electricity, forcing residents to rely on expensive and unsustainable alternatives like kerosene lamps and generator-powered lights.

Key issues identified:

• Inadequate nighttime visibility in market areas, limiting commercial activity.
• Security concerns, as poorly lit areas encouraged crime and restricted movement after dark.
• Lack of illumination in farmlands, preventing farmers from extending their working hours.
• Failed past lighting projects, making the community skeptical about new initiatives.
• Agricultural logistics disruption: As a heavily farmed community, farmers in Ikeduru frequently load and transport produce to northern Nigeria overnight during harvest periods.

However, due to the lack of proper lighting, this vital economic activity was severely hindered, forcing many to delay shipments until daylight, affecting supply chains and revenue.  A long-term, sustainable energy solution was crucial to improving quality of life and supporting economic growth.

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Design Assessment

Technical Implementation – Phase 1

200 premium German-engineered exterior lights (120W each) installed across:

• Market clusters – enabling extended trading hours.
• Community Grammar School – improving security and access for students.
• All farms within the Phase 1 perimeter – supporting extended farming hours.
• Key loading zones for agricultural produce – ensuring seamless logistics at night.

Solar-powered lighting system ensuring zero dependency on the national grid. Energy-efficient LED technology for maximum brightness with minimal energy consumption.  Smart automation system enabling dusk-to-dawn operation, reducing maintenance needs.

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Outcome

The impact of this initiative has been nothing short of transformative, reshaping daily life in Umunagboand beyond. of this project have been transformative:

• 24/7 illumination in key community areas, creating a safer environment.
• Extended business hours, allowing traders to continue operations well into the night.
• Increased agricultural productivity, as farmers can now work beyond daylight hours.
• Uninterrupted logistics operations: Farmers now load and transport produce overnight as intended, ensuring fresh deliveries to markets in northern Nigeria.
• Enhanced learning conditions at the Community Grammar School.
• Significant reduction in generator and kerosene lamp usage, saving costs for locals.

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Environmental Impact

Switching to Exergie Power not only transformed their finances but also contributed to a greener, quieter, and more sustainable environment.

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Client Feedback

Mr. Ahamefula, a community leader, expressed his gratitude:

“We now stay out at night to trade, farm, and even relax with friends after a long day. The previous lighting systems failed us, but Exergie has truly delivered lasting impact. Farmers can now move their produce at night without fear of darkness slowing them down.”