- Azura Power West Africa will unveil a 240kW solar car park at the University of Nigeria Nsukka, which will provide 75% of the energy needs for its engineering faculty.
- The project, part of Azura’s “Power to Change” initiative, will generate over 400,000 kWh annually, save ₦150 million in energy costs, and support Nigeria’s energy transition goals.
Azura Power West Africa is set to unveil a 240-kilowatt solar car park at the University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN) in the second week of November 2024, as a part of its commitment to promoting sustainable energy solutions in Nigeria.
The installation, which will serve as a model for renewable energy integration on university campuses, is expected to significantly improve energy access and reduce reliance on the national grid.
The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, will officially launch the event, which aligns with Nigeria’s broader energy transition goals and President Bola Tinubu’s ongoing power sector reforms.
The solar car park project is part of Azura Power’s Power to Change program, designed to support sustainable development in local communities and across Nigeria. According to Murtala Bello, Head of Corporate Affairs at Azura Power West Africa, the initiative aligns with the company’s broader corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategy, which focuses on contributing to education, health, infrastructure, and sustainable livelihoods. “Azura Power allocates $1 million annually to support initiatives that drive positive social impact in the communities where we operate,” Bello said.
The solar car park at UNN will provide 75% of the energy needs for the university’s engineering faculty, benefiting approximately 2,650 students. With an estimated generation of over 400,000 kWh of clean energy per year, the installation will ensure a reliable power supply that will support academic and research activities at the university.
The solar installation is expected to create a sustainable, long-term energy solution for UNN while reducing the environmental impact of conventional power sources.
“This project is not just about adding facilities; it is a concrete step toward achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in affordable and clean energy, quality education, and climate action,” Bello added. “By providing clean, renewable energy to the university, we foster educational and social development while supporting Nigeria’s national energy transition journey.”
In addition to promoting clean energy access, the solar car park is expected to deliver substantial cost savings for the university. The initiative is projected to save ₦150 million annually in energy costs, significantly reducing operational expenses for UNN. The project also supports Nigeria’s ambitions to achieve a net-zero carbon future, contributing to the country’s broader efforts to transition to sustainable energy sources.
Azura Power’s involvement in the UNN solar project highlights its ongoing commitment to advancing renewable energy solutions in Nigeria and supporting local communities and national sustainability objectives.