Nigeria’s foremost medical research agency, the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR), has moved to reduce the impact of rising electricity costs and unstable public power supply with the deployment of a N300 million solar energy system to support critical laboratories and diagnostic operations.
The 100 KVA solar power facility, donated by Excellence Community Education Welfare Scheme (ECEWS), was commissioned at the institute in Lagos, as part of efforts to ensure uninterrupted power supply for sensitive medical research and disease testing activities.
The intervention comes at a time when many research and healthcare institutions in Nigeria are struggling with soaring energy costs, unreliable electricity supply and growing dependence on diesel-powered generators.
John Oladapo Obafunwa, the director-general of NIMR, represented by Bitrus Nelson, the director of administration, said the solar project would help protect critical scientific operations that require stable electricity round the clock.
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According to him, uninterrupted power is essential for molecular laboratories, cold chain systems, emergency response and data management operations within the institute.
“Today’s event represents much more than the commissioning of a 100 KVA facility. It signifies a shared commitment to sustainable development, resilient research systems and strengthening global partnerships in advancing public health outcomes,” he said.
He disclosed that the solar system now supports key operational units including the COBAS laboratory for HIV viral load testing, molecular laboratories used for PCR analysis, seminar facilities and the institute’s biobank housing ultra-low temperature freezers for preserving sensitive biological samples.
Obafunwa noted that shortly after assuming office in August 2024, NIMR’s monthly electricity bill exceeded N48 million and later rose to between N49 million and N52 million despite government subventions.
He said the institute had already introduced energy-saving measures such as prepaid metering and stricter electricity management before the latest intervention.
Andy Eyo, the managing director of ECEWS, described NIMR as a critical institution in Nigeria’s public health and disease response system.
He said the project was designed to improve operational stability while lowering energy costs so that more resources could be redirected to research and healthcare delivery.
“This is the most sophisticated solar facility we have deployed in the health sector. It is designed not only to provide stable power but also to reduce the institute’s energy costs,” Eyo said.
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According to him, the project consists of 312 solar panels rated at 705 watts each, two 209 KVA lithium battery units and two 50 KVA inverters for power conversion, adding that the facility had undergone extensive test-running with NIMR engineers before commissioning.
Representing the minister of State for Health Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, the director-general of NIMR commended ECEWS for its continued support to Nigeria’s health and research sector.
Obafunwa noted that investments in renewable energy within health and research institutions are critical for efficiency, cost-effectiveness and service continuity. “The deployment of renewable energy solutions such as this solar system aligns with the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening health systems while embracing sustainable development,” he said
The solar installation currently powers three major facilities, including laboratories handling HIV and tuberculosis testing as well as the biobank where highly sensitive medical samples are stored under controlled temperature conditions.
NIMR said the project would strengthen its ability to sustain critical research activities, improve diagnostic services and support Nigeria’s broader renewable energy and climate goals.
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