The Rural Electrification Agency, REA, in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Power has commissioned a 3 megawatts captive solar hybrid power project at Yakubu Gowon University, formerly known as the University of Abuja, in a bid to provide stable and cleaner electricity to the institution’s 58,726 students.

‎Speaking at the event, Managing Director and CEO of the Rural Electrification Agency, REA, Abba Aliyu, stated that the project will support critical campus infrastructure, including lecture halls, laboratories, ICT system, administrative facilities, campus lighting and other essential services.

He added that it gives the university a more predictable energy base and strengthens its ability to operate as a modern teaching and research institution.

According to him, the true value of energizing education programmes is not measured by the megawatts but by improved learning environment, laboratories that can function effectively, safer campuses, reduced pressure on university operating budgets, and confidence for the institution to plan around reliable power.

‎He added that while building these infrastructure is salient, it is essential to tackle the issue of sustainability, ensuring that public renewable energy assets do not only get built but continue to provide service to the public institutions.

He also made reference to the earlier launch of the Renewable Asset Management Company, RAMCO, by the federal government as the institutional response.

‎He further stated that RAMCO cannot succeed through government action alone, it will require the support of the universities, public institutions, financiers, private operators, technical partners, regulators and host communities.

He urged all stakeholders to build a shared culture of asset stewardship as the value of the project depends on how well it is operated, protected and sustained.