Solar Energy: NASENI targets 50 megawatts electricity to national grid by 2023

The Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive, National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), Prof. Mohammed Haruna, has disclosed that the agency’s target is to contribute 50 megawatts of solar energy to Nigeria’s electricity by 2023.

Haruna made this known during the closing ceremony of a week-long NASENI skill acquisition training, as well as youth empowerment for 100 youths on solar installation and maintenance in Awka, Anambra State, at the weekend.

Haruna noted that the agency has already achieved about 21 megawatts a year with installed capacity through its NASENI Solar Energy Limited (NSEL), a manufacturing plant located in Karshi, Abuja, owned by the agency.

He said the agency is now implementing its plan to double that capacity to move its production capacity to 50 megawatts to bridge gaps of over 80 per cent imported substandard solar products, which has flooded Nigerian markets.

He harped on the need for training and retraining of technicians in the solar system electric power supply subsector, stressing that a competent workforce for Nigeria is a must for self-reliance and industrial development.

Haruna added: “Failure to acquire skill and training for solar electricity supply is the root cause of most failed solar installations across the country. This is frustrating and discouraging to customers, some of whom are already describing solar system as a myth rather than reality.”

He, then, stressed that NASENI solar panels and installations have not recorded failure anywhere across the country.

“Although we are aware that some solar installations are failing even before commissioning, no two solar system installations are the same even if they are of the same size and capacity. Load survey, computation and analysis are on a case-by-case basis.

“Accordingly, you must acquire skill on how to carry out load survey, design, component specification and selection, as well as component matching before installation. Solar power system is modular, and there are specific methods and scientific approaches to installation, repairs and maintenance,” he said.