Federal Government Commences Installation of New Solar Hybrid System at Bayero University Kano
The Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) has officially started the installation of a 1-megawatt solar hybrid alternative power system at Bayero University, Kano (BUK). This initiative is designed to create a more conducive teaching and learning environment by addressing the persistent issue of unreliable electricity from the national grid.
Background of Previous Solar Project
Prior to this new intervention, Bayero University had benefited from a significant ₦5 billion, 7.1-megawatt solar power plant under the Energizing Education Programme (EEP). This project was commissioned in 2019 by then Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, at the university's main campus.
The EEP project, which received funding from the Federal Government of Nigeria, the World Bank, and the African Development Bank, included several key components:
- Provision of an independent power plant
- Upgrading of existing distribution infrastructure
- Installation of street lighting to enhance campus security
- Establishment of a world-class renewable energy training centre
Unfortunately, this ambitious project later encountered a major setback when its hybrid batteries and solar panels were damaged by water, leaving the facility in a state of disrepair. The university management confirmed this incident, noting that efforts to repair the damaged equipment proved unsuccessful.
New Solar Hybrid System Details
Speaking during the unveiling of the new hybrid system on Friday at the university's old campus, the Director-General of the Energy Commission, Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, explained that this initiative is part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's directive to improve energy supply across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Dr. Abdullahi detailed that the intervention includes:
- A 1-megawatt solar hybrid system at Bayero University, Kano
- A 7-megawatt solar hybrid system at Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital
- A 2-megawatt system at Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology, Wudil
- Installation of 100 solar-powered street lights at BUK to enhance electricity supply on campus
The Director-General emphasized that the new system incorporates advanced technology capable of generating electricity even under shade or dusty conditions. He also highlighted that the system features a smart monitoring mechanism that allows users to track performance and manage load remotely via mobile devices or computers.
According to Dr. Abdullahi, the installation includes interconnected components such as inverters, batteries, and power transformers to ensure efficient energy distribution. "We conducted simulations based on the university's population, which exceeds 40,000, to ensure sustainable energy generation," he stated.
Broader National Implementation
Dr. Abdullahi further disclosed that similar projects are being implemented nationwide, with about 150 megawatts already underway across the states and the FCT. These initiatives aim to provide more reliable and affordable energy to Nigerians, particularly in educational and health institutions.
In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of Bayero University, Kano, Professor Haruna Musa, commended the Federal Government for this intervention. He expressed optimism that it would significantly improve electricity supply and reduce the high cost of energy on campus, ultimately benefiting both students and staff.
The Renewable Solarisation Project represents a strategic effort by the Federal Government to address energy challenges in tertiary institutions and health facilities across Nigeria, leveraging renewable energy sources to create more sustainable power solutions.
