UI, ABU to get off-grid solar power plants

Collaboration between Nigeria and Germany is underway for the construction of off-grid solar power plants for the University of Ibadan and the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.The groundbreaking ceremony for the solar power plants is to take place before the end of next month in Ibadan, Oyo State.

While playing host to German Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Michael Zenner, Education Minister, Malam Adamu Adamu, hinted that the University of Ibadan and Ahmadu Bello University solar power plants would serve as pilot projects. If successful, the project would be replicated in all other federal universities in the country.

Represented by the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Dr. Folasade Yemi-Esan, Adamu promised to render all necessary assistance to ensure the success of the projects.

Zenner, who was accompanied on the visit by the Vice Chancellor, University of Ibadan, Professor Idowu Olayinka, told the minister that the projects would not only provide electricity to the university community, but will also facilitate the training of young engineers on renewable energy technology.

Zenner pointed out that “the project is very important because the university will become independent from other power sources, the money saved can be used for research, etc.”He remarked that there has been an energy partnership between Germany and Nigeria since 2008.