ECN begins installation of 1MW solar hybrid system at Bayero University Kano
Kola Oyelere Kano
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The Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria, Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, has announced the commencement of a 1-megawatt solar hybrid power project at Bayero University Kano,( BUK) describing it as a pioneering initiative aimed at enhancing sustainable energy supply.
Abdullahi noted that the project followed a comprehensive energy audit conducted at the university, which established demand patterns for a population exceeding 40,000.
Speaking on Friday in BUK, during the groundbreaking ceremony on campus, Abdullahi said the project represents the first deployment of its kind, featuring advanced solar technology capable of generating electricity even under shaded or dusty conditions.
He explained that the hybrid system would integrate solar panels, inverters, lithium batteries, and a centralized control mechanism, allowing users to monitor and manage energy consumption remotely through mobile devices and computers.
According to him, the system also includes a smart monitoring feature designed to track load performance and detect faults in real time, thereby improving efficiency and maintenance.
Abdullahi noted that the project followed a comprehensive energy audit conducted at the university, which established demand patterns for a population exceeding 40,000.
He said the 1MW installation serves as a pilot phase, with plans already underway to scale up capacity by an additional 4.5 megawatts.
He added that the initiative is part of a broader national renewable energy programme, under which the commission has mobilised projects across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, with a cumulative target of about 150 megawatts.
The ECN boss further disclosed that the Federal Government has made adequate financial provisions for the project, assuring the university management of timely execution.
He said equipment, including lithium batteries and solar panels, had already been delivered to the site, while contractors were set to commence full mobilisation.
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Abdullahi reaffirmed the commission’s mandate to drive renewable energy development in line with federal government policy, noting that similar interventions are expected to expand access to reliable and affordable electricity nationwide.
The ceremony concluded with the formal groundbreaking, marking the start of construction on the solar hybrid installation.