The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) has taken a significant step toward sustainable energy solutions with the inauguration of a 240KW solar car park, valued at ₦900 million, donated by Azura Power West Africa. This landmark project, part of Nigeria’s broader push for renewable energy adoption, is set to transform the university’s energy landscape, addressing long-standing electricity challenges and contributing to the country’s green energy goals.
A Game-Changing Initiative for UNN
The solar car park, located at UNN’s Faculty of Engineering, marks a critical milestone in the university’s efforts to secure a reliable and sustainable energy source. The project is expected to provide substantial savings, cutting energy costs by approximately ₦150 million annually and reducing diesel consumption by 135,000 liters per year. In addition, it is projected to cut CO₂ emissions by 351,000 kilograms annually, offering a significant contribution to Nigeria’s environmental sustainability agenda.
The unveiling ceremony, which took place recently, was attended by key stakeholders, including the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, who praised the initiative as a shining example of public-private collaboration. The solar project is not only expected to alleviate UNN’s reliance on the national grid but also serve as a model for other educational institutions across Nigeria.
Minister of Power Hails Sustainable Energy Milestone
In his address, Minister Adelabu highlighted the strategic importance of renewable energy in Nigeria’s power sector. He reiterated the government’s commitment to its Vision 30:30:30—a target to generate 30,000 megawatts of electricity by 2030, with 30% of that coming from renewable sources.
“The Federal Government is committed to integrating renewable energy into our national grid, and the 240KW solar car park at UNN is a demonstration of how we can harness solar power to meet the energy needs of critical sectors like education,” said Adelabu, who was represented by the Director of Renewable Energy, Sunday Owolabi. He noted that renewable energy, particularly solar power, is vital for addressing the energy gaps in rural and off-grid areas, making it a key part of Nigeria’s sustainable development agenda.
Azura Power’s Role in Advancing Renewable Energy
Edu Okeke, Managing Director of Azura Power West Africa, emphasized that the solar car park is part of the company’s broader commitment to corporate social responsibility and its role in supporting Nigeria’s energy transition. Okeke, who described the project as a personal mission to give back to his alma mater, the Faculty of Engineering at UNN, reiterated Azura Power’s dedication to driving sustainable energy solutions.
“This project began years ago with discussions led by my good friend, Prof. Emeka Obe, and today, we are celebrating the realization of that vision. Through our corporate initiative, ‘Power to Change,’ Azura Power has dedicated significant resources to supporting education, health, and sustainable livelihoods,” said Okeke. He added that the solar car park would help address energy challenges at the university and serve as a model for future renewable energy projects across the country.
Impact on University Operations
For UNN, this solar power installation is a vital intervention. The university, which has faced significant energy challenges, including disconnection from the national grid over debts exceeding ₦800 million, now has a sustainable energy solution that will power various faculties and departments. Professor Romanus Eze Okonkwo, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), expressed his gratitude, noting that the solar car park would provide much-needed relief from the university’s ongoing electricity crisis.
“We are happy with this development. Some faculties and departments will now rely on the solar car park for electricity. This intervention by Azura is a laudable initiative and will certainly help to alleviate the severe energy challenges we’ve faced,” said Professor Okonkwo.
A Model for Other Institutions
The solar car park at UNN is more than just an infrastructure project; it symbolizes a significant shift toward cleaner, more sustainable energy in Nigerian educational institutions. Azura Power plans to expand the initiative to five more universities across the country by 2035. Beyond the university sector, Azura has also implemented similar projects at schools in Abuja, Edo, and Borno States, with a goal of achieving 2 MW of solar capacity by 2035.
Okeke called on other corporate leaders and alumni to follow Azura Power’s example by investing in Nigeria’s educational institutions. “At a time when the government alone cannot bridge the infrastructure gap, it’s imperative for the private sector to step in and support our universities,” he said.
The Broader Renewable Energy Agenda
The successful launch of the solar car park at UNN reflects the growing importance of renewable energy in Nigeria’s energy mix. The federal government, through initiatives like the Renewable Energy Master Plan and the National Policy on Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency, is actively working to increase the share of renewables in the country’s energy generation. The collaboration between Azura Power and the government is seen as a model for public-private partnerships in the renewable energy sector.
With renewable energy solutions like the solar car park leading the way, Nigeria is making progress toward achieving its climate goals and securing a more sustainable energy future. The project at UNN is not just an achievement for the university but also a beacon of innovation that could inspire other institutions across the country to embrace clean energy solutions.
A Call for Further Action
The launch of the solar car park also serves as a call to action for other stakeholders to invest in Nigeria’s energy transition. The partnership between the federal government, Azura Power, and other private sector players shows that collaboration is key to solving Nigeria’s energy challenges. By investing in renewable energy projects, Nigeria can pave the way for a cleaner, more sustainable energy future for all.
As the country continues to confront energy deficits, initiatives like the 240KW solar car park at UNN demonstrate that solutions are possible through innovation, commitment, and collaboration.
