A major boost to power supply has come to Bende Federal Constituency in Abia State with the commissioning of a 1000-kilovolt-ampere solar-powered electricity project by the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu.
The solar project, initiated by the Deputy Speaker, is expected to provide reliable and sustainable electricity to Bende headquarters and surrounding communities, while also complementing efforts to reconnect parts of the constituency to the national grid.
Speaking at the commissioning, Kalu stressed that community cooperation is critical to the success and sustainability of the project, noting that the solar facility has a battery lifespan of up to 25 years and distributes power through multiple transformers across the area.
He disclosed that he personally provided land for the solar farm after difficulties in securing community space, while also revealing that ongoing work is underway to reconnect Uzuakoli, Ozuitem and Bende headquarters to the national grid from the Alaoji power station, at significant personal cost.
The Deputy Speaker said the improved electricity supply would boost small businesses, improve productivity, and enhance living standards, while also calling for the establishment of a vigilante group to protect critical power infrastructure within the community.
In a related development, Kalu also donated a newly built two-bedroom bungalow to a widow and her son in Bende, saying the gesture reflects his commitment to improving the welfare of constituents, as beneficiaries expressed gratitude and prayed for continued blessings on his leadership.
