Federal Government Launches 3MW Mini-Grid at University

The federal government commissioned a three-megawatt hybrid mini-grid and a renewable energy training facility at Yakubu Gowon University, aimed at expanding electricity access to tertiary institutions. Inaugurated on Wednesday, the facility is part of the second phase of the Energizing Education Programme, which includes seven universities and two teaching hospitals nationwide.

The mini-grid features a 3.3 megawatt-peak solar array and two megawatt-hours of battery storage, ensuring essential services remain operational after daylight. Minister of Power, Chief Joseph Tegbe, stated the project would benefit over 58,000 students and reduce reliance on diesel generators.

He also announced plans for a national call centre for reporting electricity complaints and vandalism, which will create jobs and work alongside a joint task force to protect power assets. Abba Aliyu, Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency, noted the programme's broader impact on educational facilities and operational costs, having delivered over 100 megawatts of electricity to 22 federal institutions.