- The United Nations has commissioned a solar photovoltaic microgrid at the UN House in Abuja to reduce electricity costs and carbon emissions.
- The project combines solar power, battery storage, and smart energy management to support Nigeria’s clean energy transition.
The United Nations has strengthened its clean energy transition in Nigeria by commissioning a solar photovoltaic microgrid at the UN House in Abuja. The project marks a major step toward reducing electricity costs and carbon emissions within the organisation’s operations.
Mohamed Fall, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, announced the development during the switch-on ceremony for Phase I of the Greening of the UN House initiative.
Fall described the installation as a milestone in the organisation’s transition to renewable energy. He emphasised that the project demonstrates the practical viability of solar power in supporting sustainable operations.
He noted that Nigeria possesses vast renewable energy potential, particularly in solar generation. According to him, harnessing this resource can support economic growth, improve productivity and drive social development. In addition, he said the project aligns with reforms under the Electricity Act 2023 and Nigeria’s broader climate commitments.
Phase I of the initiative includes a 400-kilowatt peak solar photovoltaic microgrid, expandable to 700 kilowatts. The system also integrates 650 kilowatt-hours of lithium-ion battery storage to ensure reliable backup power.
Advanced digital systems form a key component of the installation. Artificial intelligence-based energy management and Internet of Things monitoring allow real-time tracking of electricity consumption and optimisation of power use across the facility.
According to Fall, the project could reduce annual electricity costs at the UN House by roughly 40 per cent. This translates into estimated savings of between ₦173 million and ₦216 million each year.
The microgrid will also cut grid electricity consumption by nearly one million kilowatt-hours annually. In addition, it will reduce carbon emissions by about 300 tonnes per year.
Technical support for the installation came from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The initiative also reflects collaboration among multiple UN agencies operating within the shared complex.
The organisation plans to expand the system under Phase II. The upgrade will increase solar capacity toward 700 kilowatts and further reduce reliance on conventional grid electricity.
Abba Aliyu, Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency, commended the UN for demonstrating the economic and technical potential of renewable energy in Nigeria.
Aliyu explained that Nigeria requires approximately $23 billion to electrify underserved and unserved communities using cost-effective solutions. Therefore, he said projects such as the UN solar installation offer valuable examples of scalable clean energy deployment.
The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, represented by Permanent Secretary Mahmuda Mamman, also welcomed the initiative. He stated that renewable energy forms a critical component of Nigeria’s long-term energy security strategy.
Balarabe Lawal described the installation as an important step in addressing climate change and promoting sustainable development.
He expressed confidence that the project will encourage other institutions and organisations in Nigeria to adopt renewable energy technologies and reduce their environmental footprint.