The Nigerian Federal Government has commissioned a 3 MW solar hybrid power facility at Yakubu Gowon University in Abuja, formerly known as the University of Abuja. The project has been developed under Phase II of the Energising Education Programme and implemented by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), with financial support from the World Bank through the Nigeria Electrification Project.
The facility includes a 3.3 MWp solar power generation system, 3 MW AC output capacity and a 2 MWh battery energy storage system. The project is designed to reduce the university’s dependence on diesel generators while providing reliable and cleaner electricity to more than 58,000 students and staff.
The solar hybrid system supplies power to key university facilities, including academic buildings, research laboratories, administrative offices and digital infrastructure. The project is expected to improve the reliability of electricity for teaching, research and online academic services across the campus.
As part of the development, 388 solar-powered streetlights have also been installed to improve nighttime visibility and campus security. A Renewable Energy Workshop and Training Centre has been established alongside the power plant to provide practical training in renewable energy technologies. The centre is expected to support hands-on learning for hundreds of students and strengthen clean-energy skills development.
During the inauguration, government officials highlighted the importance of dependable electricity for education, research and human capital development. The Ministry of Power stated that reliable energy would help protect investments in modern educational infrastructure and reduce disruptions caused by power shortages.
REA representatives said long-term asset management measures have been established to support the plant’s efficient operation and maintenance.
University authorities welcomed the project, noting that stable electricity is essential for scientific research, digital services and an effective learning environment. The facility adds to Nigeria’s wider programme to deploy sustainable off-grid power systems at federal universities and teaching hospitals across the country.
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