The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), has received a significant boost in its quest for sustainable energy solutions and technological advancements with the installation of Solar Energy Power Plants and an Electric Vehicle Charging Station, courtesy of the German Government.
Chief Uche Nnaji, the Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovations, commended the German Government for its collaboration in executing these projects, which aim to address energy challenges while promoting food security.
The projects, inaugurated by a German delegation led by Mr Till Mansann, a Member of the German Parliament and Hydrogen Commissioner, were implemented as part of the Yield Analysis and Socio-economic Impact Assessment of Photovoltaic and Photovoltaic-supported Food and Energy Hybrid System in Tropical Nigerian-Beninese Climate initiative.
The project focused on developing climate-friendly methods of energy generation and food production.
Representing the Minister, Mr. Sulu Ibrahim, Director of the Energy Management Department, Energy Commission of Nigeria, highlighted the significance of the Energy Power Plants in providing clean power supply and enhancing food production at UNN.
He applauded the German Government, the YESPV Nigeria team, and the Centre for Energy Research Commission (CERC), UNN, for their collaboration in successfully executing the projects.
On his part, Prof. Charles Igwe, the Vice-Chancellor of UNN, expressed gratitude to the German Government for choosing the university as the location for the projects.
He emphasized the collaborative efforts between CERC-UNN and the Center for Energy and Climate Research, Julich Germany, in implementing the initiatives across various facilities within the university.
The projects, including a 20kwp Agri-PV system, a 20kwp system at the University Medical Centre, an 11KWp system at the Nano research laboratory, a 5KWp solar home system, and a 1KWp PV-powered charging station, are expected to alleviate energy challenges within the institution while serving as a hub for energy research.
Also speaking, Dr. Izuckukwu Okafor, Director of CERC-UNN, highlighted the positive impact of the projects, particularly in maintaining a steady power supply at the University’s Medical Centre.
Mr Mansann expressed satisfaction with the dedication and expertise demonstrated by the Nigerian project team in executing the projects.
He reiterated the German Government’s commitment to supporting Nigeria in overcoming its power supply challenges and facilitating capacity-building initiatives.
Meanwhile, trade relations between Nigeria and Germany have seen significant growth, reaching €3 billion in 2023, up from €2 billion in 2022.
German Ambassador to Nigeria, Annett Gunther, announced the increase recently, noting that the balance of trade is currently in favour of Nigeria, primarily due to crude oil exports.
However, she emphasized the opportunities for enhancing trade relations through the agricultural sector, which could benefit both nations.
