Nigeria unveils multi-million-naira hybrid power project at Bayero University

Nigeria’s push toward clean and reliable energy took a practical step forward as the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) commenced the installation of a 1-megawatt solar hybrid power system at Bayero University Kano, marking a pilot phase in a broader national renewable energy rollout.

Musapha Abdullahi, director-general of ECN, said the project represents a new generation of solar infrastructure designed to improve energy access in public institutions while reducing dependence on the national grid.

According to him, the hybrid system comprises panels, lithium battery storage, inverters, and a centralised control architecture, allowing for efficient energy management across the university campus. He noted that the technology is built to maintain performance even under challenging conditions such as dust accumulation or partial shading—common issues in northern Nigeria.

“What we are deploying here is not just a conventional solar setup. It is an integrated, smart system that allows real-time monitoring and control from mobile devices and computers,” Abdullahi said during the groundbreaking ceremony.

The system also features a smart monitoring platform that enables operators to track energy load, detect faults, and optimise performance remotely. This, he explained, would ensure reliability and ease of maintenance, particularly in large institutions like BUK, which has a population exceeding 40,000 students and staff.

The project follows a detailed energy audit conducted at the university to determine demand and sustainability requirements. Abdullahi disclosed that the 1MW installation is only the first phase, with plans already underway to scale up capacity significantly.

“We are starting with one megawatt as a pilot. After evaluating performance, we will expand, including revamping an additional 4.5 megawatts to meet growing demand,” he said.

The ECN boss added that the initiative is part of a nationwide renewable energy programme targeting over 150 megawatts of solar deployment across federal institutions in all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. He also referenced a broader federal commitment to deliver up to 30 megawatts of solar energy to Nigerians under ongoing clean energy reforms.

Abdullahi emphasised that funding for the project has been secured, with contractors already mobilising to the site. Equipment, including lithium batteries and solar panels, has begun arriving, signalling the immediate commencement of installation work.

He described the Bayero University project as a “practical demonstration” of the federal government’s renewable energy agenda, aimed at ensuring more reliable and affordable electricity for critical sectors such as education.

The ECN, which is responsible for coordinating energy research and policy implementation in Nigeria, said the solarisation programme is expected to reduce energy costs for institutions, enhance academic productivity, and contribute to environmental sustainability.

With universities often struggling with erratic power supply, stakeholders believe the project could serve as a model for other tertiary institutions seeking alternative energy solutions across the country.