Umza International Farms Commissions Hybrid Solar And Battery Plant At Kano Rice Mill

Umza International Farms has commissioned a hybrid solar and battery storage power plant at its rice and oil mill in Kano, marking an important step toward clean and reliable energy use in Nigeria’s industrial sector. The project is being seen as a major milestone for Kano, which is one of the country’s key industrial centres but has long faced serious challenges due to unreliable grid power.

The new energy system includes a 1 megawatt-peak rooftop solar installation combined with a 2.15 megawatt-hour battery energy storage system. Together, these systems provide a stable and continuous supply of electricity to the mill. This setup helps the factory avoid frequent power cuts and voltage fluctuations that are common in the local grid. Earlier, Umza’s operations depended heavily on diesel generators, which are costly to run and contribute significantly to pollution.

The project was developed through a partnership involving both international and Nigerian companies. Empower New Energy, a renewable energy investment company based in Norway, financed the project and will own and operate the plant under a ten-year agreement. The design and construction work was carried out by Paras Energy, a Nigerian engineering firm with experience in clean energy solutions. Huawei supplied the solar inverters and battery storage technology used in the project.

With the new power system in place, the rice and oil mill is expected to benefit from lower energy costs and improved operational efficiency. Reliable electricity will allow the plant to run smoothly without disruptions, helping it maintain steady production levels. This is especially important for food processing facilities, where power interruptions can lead to losses and reduced output.

The project is also expected to have wider economic benefits for the region. As one of the largest rice processors in the area, the mill plays a key role in supporting local farmers and ensuring the supply of staple food products. Stable operations at the facility can help strengthen food security and protect the livelihoods of those connected to the agricultural supply chain.

In addition to economic gains, the shift to solar energy will significantly reduce carbon emissions by cutting down the use of diesel generators. During the commissioning event, representatives from Umza International Farms and its partners said they hope the project will encourage other businesses in Northern Nigeria to consider renewable energy solutions. Completed in less than a year, the project highlights how decentralized clean energy systems can address power challenges and support sustainable industrial growth across Africa.