- Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) will allocate 20% of its annual budget to renewable energy investments to tackle rising electricity costs and power disruptions.
- The hospital has reduced its electricity consumption by 25-30% and will incorporate renewable energy into all new structures to ensure reliable power for critical operations.
Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) is set to invest significantly in renewable energy as part of a strategic move to address ongoing power challenges, according to Chief Medical Director Prof. Wasiu Adeyemo. Adeyemo.
The distinguished Professor of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery revealed that the hospital will allocate 20% of its annual budget to renewable energy initiatives. This decision comes in response to a sharp increase in electricity tariffs and recent power shortages affecting the hospital’s operations.
In recent months, LUTH has faced a dramatic rise in electricity costs, escalating bills from N69 million in March to N252 million in April. The situation was further exacerbated by an eight-day power outage in July, enforced by Eko Electricity Distribution Company, leading to widespread hospital disruptions.
Speaking exclusively with PUNCH Newspaper, Adeyemo emphasised the importance of a reliable power supply for maintaining high healthcare standards. He highlighted that the hospital has already achieved a 25 to 30% reduction in electricity usage through various energy conservation measures.
All new structures at LUTH and its three campuses will now incorporate renewable energy solutions to support the hospital’s critical functions, including operating theatres, intensive care units, and the neonatal unit.
Adeyemo outlined the hospital’s comprehensive approach to managing energy consumption, stating, “We have reduced electricity consumption by 25 to 30%. This will be reflected in our energy bills. Much of our budget will be invested in renewable energy to ensure sustained power supply.”
The CMD also praised recent federal government efforts, noting that the 2024 budget includes allocations for renewable energy projects. He expressed optimism that these initiatives would continue into the 2025 budget and beyond, supporting the hospital’s goal of integrating renewable energy into its infrastructure.
Renewable energy is crucial for LUTH, particularly given its role as a leading healthcare provider with facilities such as the largest cancer centre in Nigeria and West Africa. Ensuring continuous power supply is vital for the hospital’s operations, as any interruption could severely impact patient care.
Investing in renewable energy is expected to mitigate the impact of electricity price fluctuations and power outages, providing LUTH with a more stable and sustainable energy solution.