The Federal Government has announced plans to install mini grids in several higher institutions across the country to reduce the rising cost of electricity and improve the learning and research environment for students and staff.
The Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, disclosed the initiative during his inspection of the Advanced Solar Microgrid project at the University of Abuja. The project, which is 95% complete, is set to serve as a model for other universities, tertiary institutions, and teaching hospitals nationwide.
Minister Adelabu explained that the solar project would help shield these institutions from high electricity costs and reduce their reliance on the national grid. He emphasized that President Tinubu’s focus on education as a foundation for economic growth was a driving factor behind the initiative.
“We recognize that no sector can perform optimally without reliable and affordable energy. Energy is critical for all sectors, and that’s why President Tinubu has prioritized power as a driver of other critical sectors,” Adelabu said during his inspection. He added that the project aims to ensure that tertiary institutions and teaching hospitals are not hindered by the high cost of electricity.
The solar microgrid project, which is being managed by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) in collaboration with the Nigeria Electrification Programme (NEP) and the Energising Education Programme (EEP), will be replicated in other institutions across the country. The minister called on the University of Abuja’s management to ensure the regular maintenance and protection of the system to ensure its sustainability.
“We need the cooperation of the universities to replicate this project across the country. With this, we hope to eliminate the complaints about high energy costs in these institutions,” Adelabu added, noting that the initiative would contribute to providing a stable and conducive environment for academic work.
The Acting Vice Chancellor of the University of Abuja, Prof. Aisha Sani Maikudi, expressed gratitude for the project, highlighting that electricity had been a significant challenge for the university. She noted that the high cost of diesel to run generators had been a major strain on the institution, and the solar project would be a welcome relief.
“We have been looking forward to this. Electricity is critical to us, and this project will ease the burden of running our generators. We are committed to maintaining and protecting this solar energy system,” Prof. Maikudi said.
The solar microgrid project is expected to be officially commissioned by President Tinubu in December.
