ABU to generate power from 10mw solar plant

Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, is set to enjoy uninterruptible power supply as the construction of a 10mw solar plant begins in the institution.

The N4 billion project, located at Biye village, Sabongari LGA of Kaduna, is expected to be completed in 6 months.

Adamu Adamu, minister of education, on Monday, performed the ground-breaking ceremony of the 10mw solar power plant which is meant to address the energy needs of the university and its environs.

The project was designed, initiated and financed by ABU in collaboration with Nigeria-German energy partnership with assistance from Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), NAN reports.

Adamu, who was represented by Fatima Jidda-Ahmed, director, tertiary institutions in the ministry of education, said the institution would maximise its opportuned partnership with Germany in both power generation and further collaboration with engineering students.

Jeremy Gains, coordinator, Nigeria-German energy partnership, said the project started as far back as 2008 in Berlin when the late president Umaru Yar’Adua and his wife visited Germany.

“Both Yar’Adua and his wife were alumni of the university. He met Chancellor Martha and she asked how Germany can help Nigeria.

“The late president said wisely in just three words and those three words were; power, power, power, adding that electricity is the key to development,” Gains said.

Ibrahim Garba, ABU vice-chancellor, said the institution needed high electricity supply as it is the largest university in Nigeria.

He added that the university spends about N85 million monthly on electricity, hence, there’s an urgent need for the institution to “own power source to use and probably sell out to consumers out there”.