Kainji and Jebba Hydropower Plants
Project details
Project name: Kainji and Jebba Hydropower Plants
Project location: Kwara State/Niger State
Installed capacity: 760 MW and 578.4 MW
Project owner: Mainstream Energy Solutions Limited (MESL)
HSS Assessment
Assessment tool: Hydropower Sustainability Standard
Assessment stage: Operation
Assessment date: February 16-20 & March 23-27, 2026
HSS Assessment Report:
Public Consultation Form
Assessor team
Sustainability assessment overview
The assessment report highlights the Kainji and Jebba Hydropower Plants’ strong management systems and operational practices, alongside their important role in power generation, flood management and local development in Nigeria. Mainstream Energy Solutions Limited (MESL) maintains a third-party certified environmental, health and safety management system, strong labour and working conditions, effective governance processes and regular engagement with communities and government stakeholders. The assessment identified no gaps against the HSS Minimum Requirements.
The projects also deliver significant benefits to surrounding communities, including investment in education, health, infrastructure and access to safe drinking water through the Mainstream Foundation. The dams are in good condition and contribute significantly to flood management on the lower Niger River, while the projects qualify as contributing to low-carbon power generation. The assessment also identifies opportunities to strengthen coordination with institutions responsible for the wider reservoirs and surrounding ecosystems, improve biodiversity and fisheries management, formalise reservoir operating arrangements, and further develop the projects’ approach to climate resilience and sustainability.
The public consultation period on the Preliminary Assessment Report of the Kainji and Jebba Hydropower Plants is open from 18 August to 16 October 2026.
Evidence of the distribution of the assessment report to provide comments is available in:
Learn more about MESL.
