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Tag: solar energy

  • ‘Solar energy key to rural development’

    ‘Solar energy key to rural development’

    The shift from traditional cooking fuels to clean energy sources such as solar power represents one of the most significant opportunities for transforming rural communities and empowering women across developing nations, Chief Executive, SMEFUNDS, Dr Femi Oye has .

    Speaking on the critical role of household energy transition in sustainable development, Oye highlighted that more than 2 billion people worldwide still depend on wood, crop residues, and animal dung for cooking, with profound implications for health, economic development, and gender equality.

    “The household energy transition is not merely about switching fuels—it is about fundamentally transforming the quality of life in rural communities. When we talk about moving from traditional biomass to cleaner alternatives like electricity, natural gas, and solar power, we are talking about saving lives, creating economic opportunities, and empowering women who bear the heaviest burden of inefficient cooking systems,” Oye stated.

    Oye emphasised that the benefits of energy transition extend far beyond convenience.

    “The combustion of traditional fuels releases high levels of pollutants and toxic gases, increasing risks of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, neurological disorders, and premature death. Clean energy adoption improves both indoor and outdoor air quality, which translates directly into better physical and mental health and reduced medical expenditure for households,” he added.

    Responding to the recent celebration of World Clean Energy Day, Oye revealed how his organisation is supporting smarter energy choices through innovative technology. At the heart of this effort is Kike AI, a digital platform designed to help households maximise the efficiency of clean cooking energy.

    “We believe that clean cooking means safer homes, stronger communities, and a more sustainable Nigeria. At Kike AI, we support clean energy by helping households cook more efficiently, reduce gas waste, and plan better so energy is used intentionally, not carelessly,” he stated.

    The platform addresses a common challenge faced by households transitioning to clean cooking fuels. “Many households only realize their gas is finishing when it’s already too late. That last-minute rush is stressful and avoidable.With Kike AI, cooking habits are tracked over time, helping households know what they use daily and when to plan refills ahead of time. No surprises. No panic. Just better planning and peace of mind in the kitchen,” Oye explained.

    Read Also: Nigeria needs farm price stabilisation framework to protect farmers, says Yusuf

    Beyond energy tracking, Kike AI serves as a comprehensive kitchen assistant that makes clean cooking more accessible and appealing to families. “Kike AI helps you turn simple ingredients into creative meals you wouldn’t normally think of.It suggests smart, budget-friendly recipes and guides you step by step while you cook. Perfect for discovering new snacks, meals, and kitchen ideas without stress,” he continued.The platform introduces variety without overwhelming users, organising meals into simple categories including Nigerian classics, quick comfort meals, and lighter options. It start with what you know. Add variety at your own pace. Kike AI supports everyday cooking decisions,” he emphasised.

    He pointed out that the gender dimension of energy transition deserves particular attention. “In many rural areas of developing countries, women are mainly responsible for household chores such as fuel collection and cooking.They stand to gain the most from this transition, and consequently, the shift to cleaner energy sources contributes significantly to female empowerment and the promotion of gender equality,” he noted. “

    He acknowledged that significant barriers continue to hinder progress. “High upfront costs for clean energy technologies, limited access to modern energy services in remote areas, deep-rooted reliance on traditional fuels, and inadequate awareness all present formidable challenges,” he said.

    To overcome these obstacles, he  outlined a comprehensive approach combining technological innovation with robust policy frameworks. “Governments and international organisations must enhance financial support through subsidies and low-interest loans to reduce the initial cost burden for low-income households.We need targeted investments in infrastructure, particularly expanding grid connectivity and supporting off-grid systems such as solar home systems for remote communities,” he urged.

  • Solar Energy: A Game-Changer in Tackling Food Inflation in Nigeria and Africa at large

    Solar Energy: A Game-Changer in Tackling Food Inflation in Nigeria and Africa at large

    Nigeria, the most populous Black nation on Earth with over 200 million people, has in recent years struggled with rising food inflation. This crisis is largely driven by outdated farming techniques, inefficient food processing, and storage challenges all of which have limited productivity and increased food scarcity. As prices soar, the average Nigerian finds it increasingly difficult to afford daily meals.

    This article explores how solar energy can revolutionize agriculture and food processing in Nigeria, ultimately boosting food supply and reducing inflation.

    Outdated Farming Methods

    For decades, Nigerian farmers have practiced seasonal farming, dictated by the country’s two main seasons: the rainy season and the dry season. Crops that require significant rainfall are planted only during the wet season, while drought-resistant varieties are reserved for the dry months.

    However, this limited window of cultivation reduces year-round food availability. Despite Nigeria having over 3 million hectares of irrigation potential, only around 90,000 hectares were utilized as of 2020. This underutilization leads to crop scarcity during off-seasons and, consequently, inflated prices.

    Inefficient Food Processing Techniques

    Traditionally, food drying in Nigeria involves spreading produce like yam flour, cassava, and pepper on roadsides or open fields. While common, this method poses serious health risks due to exposure to dust, dirt, and contamination. Additionally, unpredictable weather conditions slow down the drying process and reduce product quality.

    In today’s world, such outdated practices hamper food safety, reduce output, and limit scalability.

    Primitive Food Storage Practices

    Food storage continues to be a major challenge, especially for smallholder farmers. Many still rely on smoking fish or storing crops in open spaces to preserve them. Unfortunately, these methods often lead to significant post-harvest losses and reduce the availability of food during off-seasons further contributing to inflation.

    Solar Energy: A Catalyst for Agricultural Transformation

    1. Solar-Powered Irrigation

    Large-scale, all-year-round farming is impossible without reliable irrigation. Solar energy offers a sustainable solution, especially in rural areas lacking access to the national grid. With solar-powered water pumps, farmers can irrigate their fields efficiently and consistently, regardless of the season.

    Read Also: Dangote urges Nigerians to buy only made-in-Nigeria goods

    This reduces dependency on rainfall, increases crop yields, and lowers the cost of food production.

    2. Solar Dryers for Food Processing

    Modern solar dryers are revolutionizing food drying by offering cleaner, faster, and more controlled processes. Unlike traditional sun-drying methods, solar dryers protect food from contamination, pests, and unpredictable weather. They also drastically reduce drying time, allowing farmers to process more produce in less time, with higher quality and less waste.

    3. Solar Cold Storage Facilities

    In 2025, food storage is taking a new turn with the emergence of solar-powered cold rooms. At DVS Reliable Energy, we deploy commercial and industrial solar solutions to power cold storage facilities helping reduce electricity costs and minimize spoilage of perishable goods like fish and vegetables.

    These facilities enable farmers to store their harvests longer, sell when market conditions are favorable, and avoid losses caused by inadequate storage infrastructure.

    Governments can play a significant role by investing in solar-powered storage hubs in rural areas. These centers can be leased to farmers at subsidized rates creating a win-win scenario by both reducing food waste and generating revenue.

    Conclusion

    According to Save the Children, around 33 million Nigerians may face food insecurity in 2025, uncertain of where their next meal will come from. Much of the country’s food inflation can be traced to the outdated farming, processing, and storage methods discussed above.

    Food should be one of the most accessible necessities for every citizen, but in Nigeria, it’s increasingly becoming a luxury.

    Solar energy provides a viable, sustainable path forward. With strategic investments in solar-powered irrigation, drying, and storage solutions, the government and private sector can help increase food production, reduce losses, and ultimately bring down the cost of food across the country.

    Written by David Adewuyi,a renewable Energy Consultant and the CEO of DVS Reliable Energy

  • ‘How solar energy can create jobs for youths’

    ‘How solar energy can create jobs for youths’

    As the global shift towards renewable energy intensifies, Chief Executive, SMEFUNDS, Dr Femi Oye has said the solar industry presents an unprecedented landscape of opportunities for young Nigerian entrepreneurs.

    According to him, it not just offer a sustainable future energy supply  but also significant avenues for skill development and job creation.

    Oye is  championing a similar trajectory for Nigeria, envisioning a future where young, innovative minds are at the forefront of the nation’s energy transition.

    He continued that the burgeoning demand for reliable and clean energy solutions coupled with the ongoing challenges of grid instability,has created a fertile ground for solar-powered ventures.

    He noted:’Unlike many developed nations, Nigeria’s energy deficit means that solar isn’t just an eco-friendly alternative, it’s a critical necessity for homes and businesses to thrive. This inherent demand translates into vast potential for solar panel installation, maintenance, and even the development of localised micro-grids.

    The opportunities in Nigeria’s solar sector are immense,” states Femi Oye. “We have a young, dynamic population eager to learn and innovate. What’s needed is to equip them with the right skills and the entrepreneurial mindset to tap into this booming market.”

    Read Also: itel solar energy opens first customer experience centre in Alaba market

    According to him, the Federal Government can take advantage of  similar strategies to empower its youth. “Imagine programmes that not only teach the technical aspects of solar panel installation and repair but also nurture entrepreneurial skills, guiding young individuals to establish their own solar businesses. This approach would not only create a skilled workforce but also foster a new generation of job creators.’

    He spoke on the achievements of his organisation beyond traditional solar installations. ‘’Our Kike Technologies subsidiary Kike AI” kitchen application is  already making waves in Nigeria, offering a glimpse into how technology can address everyday challenges. It  tells you when your cooking gas will finish, eliminating that common household headache. It also promotes a wide array of cooking recipes, adding convenience and culinary inspiration to homes.

    This innovative spirit, exemplified by Kike AI, can be replicated in the solar space.”

    According to him, young entrepreneurs could develop AI-powered applications that optimize solar panel efficiency in real-time, predict potential issues, and schedule maintenance, all while offering tailored advice on maximizing energy harvest. They could also create platforms where households with excess solar power can sell it to neighbours, fostering localized  markets and community-based energy independence.”

    Oye emphasised. “It’s about identifying a need and then using technology to provide a smart, sustainable solution.”

    He noted that the  journey to a solar-powered Nigeria will require concerted efforts from government, private sector, and educational institutions to provide the necessary training, financial support, and regulatory frameworks.”

  • UI receives maiden Solar energy training centre

    UI receives maiden Solar energy training centre

    In a bold move to empower youths and accelerate the adoption of renewable energy, itel Solar Energy has officially commissioned its first Solar Energy Training Centre in partnership with the University of Ibadan (UI).

    The commissioning ceremony, held on Thursday, May 29, marked a significant milestone in the company’s education-focused corporate social responsibility (CSR) and long-term talent development strategy.

    The project is part of itel Solar Energy’s commitment to education, capacity building, and long-term investment in the country’s green economy while driving awareness and adoption of solar energy among younger demographics.

    Through this partnership with Nigeria’s premier university, the initiative offers a comprehensive solar education and skill acquisition program that blends classroom learning with hands-on technical training.

    Through this partnership, itel Solar Energy is offering a weekly solar energy training program to students.

    The training is designed to blend theoretical knowledge with practical experience, including hands-on training in solar installation and energy systems. In addition to the core program, merit-based scholarships will be awarded to the most outstanding participants, providing financial support and motivation for academic excellence.

    The top graduates from each cohort will also receive guaranteed job placements within itel Solar Energy’s growing operations, particularly in science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM) and marketing departments.

    Speaking at the event, Professor Kayode Adebowale, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, expressed the institution’s enthusiasm about the partnership, saying, “On behalf of the University of Ibadan, I would like to sincerely appreciate Itel Solar Energy for this impactful initiative.

    ” The opportunities and benefits extended to our students, from hands-on training to scholarships and internship opportunities, are deeply commendable.

    “We believe this marks the beginning of a meaningful and enduring partnership, one that will yield mutual value for years to come. Thank you for extending a hand of benevolence and for investing in the future of our youth.”

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    As part of its support to the university, itel Solar Energy also undertook a comprehensive renovation of the Student Union Study Hall, including the upgrade of desks and chairs to improve ergonomics and comfort for study sessions. In addition, the hall has been equipped with a 24/7 Energy Storage System, ensuring an uninterrupted power supply.

    The newly transformed space now serves a dual purpose. It functions as a venue for weekly training sessions conducted by solar energy professionals while also remaining open 24/7 as a study hub for students. itel Solar Energy has also provided free device charging stations within the facility, giving students a reliable and comfortable environment to study, learn, and connect.

    Covenant Oladele, President of the University of Ibadan Students’ Union Government (SUG), spoke on behalf of the student body, saying they have been provided us with a hub of opportunity. “With solar training, scholarship access, and a modernised learning environment, our academic and career prospects have just been significantly expanded. This shows what real corporate responsibility looks like.”

    Olaotan Fawehinmi, PR Manager of the company, reaffirmed their dedication to youth development and sustainability. “Our mission isn’t just about delivering solar products, and we are building a movement, a future powered by skilled, passionate Nigerians. By opening this training centre and supporting the University of Ibadan, we are shaping the next generation of solar energy professionals and creating direct career pathways in the renewable energy sector. Every solution we provide, every opportunity we create, is a step toward a cleaner, smarter, and more inclusive energy future for Nigeria.”h

    The commissioning event concluded with a tour of the upgraded facility, live solar product demonstrations, and remarks from university officials, students, and the company.

    Plans are already in motion to replicate this model at other universities across the country as the company works toward establishing a nationwide network of training centres and youth empowerment hubs.

  • 24 federal tertiary institutions powered by solar energy, says Alausa

    24 federal tertiary institutions powered by solar energy, says Alausa

    The Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, has said 24 federal institutions have been powered by solar energy under the “Energising Education Project’’ of President Bola Tinubu’s Administration.

    Alausa, who disclosed this yesterday in Abuja, at the Collaboration agreement signing ceremony with the vice chancellors of beneficiary institutions, added that eight more universities have signed collaboration agreements to join the fourth phase of the project.

    Before the signing ceremony,  the minister undertook an inspection tour of the solar powered facility at the University of Abuja, now Yakubu Gowon University,

    Alausa, who described the project as a “new day for Nigeria”, hailed the transformative initiative under Tinubu, aimed at providing uninterrupted power supply to Nigeria’s federal tertiary institutions.

    He said the projects had wide-reaching benefits for education and the economy.

    According to him, the University of Abuja, which now boasts of a solar farm, comprising 6,000 photovoltaic panels, is generating approximately 3.3 megawatts of electricity daily, enough to power the campus round-the-clock.

    “This project brings continuous, 24-hour electricity to our institutions.

    “It allows for increased academic activity, powers laboratories and libraries throughout the day and night, and improves living and learning conditions for both students and faculty,’’ he said.

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    The minister emphasised the economic ripple effect of the initiative, explaining how reliable electricity stimulates business within campuses.

    “Any campus is a community by itself. With constant power supply, you unleash high economic activity,” he said.

    The minister explained that the project was backed by the Renewable Infrastructure Fund established by President Tinubu, to support infrastructure development across sectors.

    He, therefore, challenged vice chancellors of universities on innovative and creative ways of sustaining the project, noting that before 2027, every tertiary institution would have renewable energy generation.

    On his part, the Managing Director, Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Abba Aliyu, said that the phases 1, 2, and 3 of the project have so far impacted over 600,000 students and 50,000 academic workers.

    Aliyu said the project had also generated over 100 megawatts of electricity to power university campuses and teaching hospitals.

    He said the initiative, implemented through multiple phases, had already brought solar mini-grid infrastructure to 24 federal universities across the country.

    “What you are seeing here is one of our interventions in the education sector, and the aim is to ensure that universities have a sustainable and affordable electricity supply,” he said

    In addition to educational institutions, he said the Universal Public Health Project, part of phase 2, had successfully delivered clean energy to two universities and two teaching hospitals.

    He added that the Phase 3, which includes electrification of eight more universities and one additional teaching hospital, is near completion and set to be commissioned in the coming two months.

    The eight new beneficiary institutions include: Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and Federal University, Wukari, Taraba State.

    Others are Federal University Dutse, University of Benin, University of Ibadan, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife and University of Lagos.

  • Presidency justifies powering State House with solar energy

    Presidency justifies powering State House with solar energy

    • Cites White House example

    The Presidency has defended the Federal Executive Council’s approval of a N10 billion solar energy project for the State House.

    Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, made the clarification on his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle, following media reports questioning the necessity of the project, especially in the light of prevailing economic realities.

    Onanuga argued that transitioning the State House to solar power aligns with global best practices, noting that the White House in Washington, D.C., also uses solar energy as part of its power supply.

    “The White House in Washington D.C. uses solar power,” he wrote, implying that the adoption of renewable energy for high-level government facilities is not unprecedented and reflects a commitment to sustainability.

    Onanuga laced his position with a video of a similar project executed for the White House, which explains the reasons the U.S. Presidency opted for the solar alternative.

    The proposed solar system, it was gathered, would provide stable electricity for the President’s residence, administrative offices and other essential buildings within the State House complex, enhancing energy efficiency and long-term cost savings.

    Read Also: Nigeria can replicate global success with decentralised solar energy, says ECN

    While some Nigerians have applauded the environmental benefits of the initiative, others have raised concerns about its price tag and whether such expenditure is prudent at a time when many citizens are grappling with economic hardship.

    Former presidential aide Reno Omokri towed Onanuga’s line. He urged Nigerians to see a bigger picture and argued that powering State House with solar has nothing to do with lack of faith in local electricity infrastructure.

    Omokri pointed out that the British monarchy under King Charles III has been trying to install solar panels at Buckinham Palace in England and the deployment of of geo-thermal technology at the Elysee Palace in Paris, France.

  • FG powers HoSF complex with 500kW solar energy

    FG powers HoSF complex with 500kW solar energy

    In a major push towards clean and cost-effective governance, the Federal Government has commissioned a 500kW solar photovoltaic (PV) power plant at the Head of Civil Service of the Federation (HoSF) building in Abuja—marking a strategic shift from diesel-powered electricity to sustainable solar energy in one of the nation’s most critical public institutions.

    The solar plant, which is the first phase of a planned 1MW project, is expected to cut electricity costs by millions of naira annually, drastically reduce diesel consumption, and eliminate productivity losses caused by frequent power outages.

    Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, represented by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mr. Mahmuda Mamman, noted that the solar plant would meet up to 70 percent of the building’s daily energy needs, displacing several tonnes of carbon emissions annually in line with Nigeria’s international climate obligations under the Paris Agreement.

    “This building is the nerve centre of Nigeria’s public service and policy development. Powering it with solar is not only symbolic—it is strategic. It shows this administration is serious about cost-effective and climate-smart governance,” Adelabu said.

    He disclosed that the second phase of the project—which will add another 500kW to reach full 1MW capacity—would commence shortly, with replication planned for other federal institutions.

    Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, described the project as a “major milestone” and applauded the technical partners, Truetech Global Investments Limited and GRB Solar Investment Limited, for their commitment to delivering global-standard clean energy solutions.

    Read Also: Nigeria can replicate global success with decentralised solar energy, says ECN

    “This is a proud moment not only for our team but for Nigeria. It’s a bold statement that renewable energy is no longer a concept for the future—it is happening now, here in our public institutions.

    “The solar plant reflects a profound shift in our energy priorities and stands as a beacon of hope for future sustainability efforts across the public sector,” she said.

    The Minister added that the project aligns with Nigeria’s target to achieve 30 percent renewable energy penetration by 2030. 

    He revealed that similar installations have been completed at the Ministry of Power headquarters, the Nigeria Defence Academy in Kaduna, Naval Base Onne in Rivers State, and the Teaching Hospital in Damaturu, Yobe State.

    He urged private investors and development partners to key into Nigeria’s clean energy transition, citing available opportunities in solar, mini-grids and green financing.

  • Nigeria can replicate global success with decentralised solar energy, says ECN

    Nigeria can replicate global success with decentralised solar energy, says ECN

    The Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) has emphasised the country’s potential to harness decentralised solar energy solutions to power rural communities and reduce dependence on the national grid.

    Director-General of ECN, Engr. Mustapha Abdullahi, stated this in a report titled Building a Sustainable Future: A Strategic Pathway to Innovation and Development through Sustainable Solutions via Renewable Energy.

    Abdullahi, highlighted the transformative impact of renewable energy investments.

    He envisioned a future where major roads are illuminated by solar-powered LED lights, and government buildings, as well as industrial parks, operate on hybrid renewable energy sources.

    Abdullahi cited global examples such as Germany and China, where smart grids, solar-powered street lighting, and energy-efficient transportation networks have improved connectivity and reduced costs.

    He noted that under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, a clear roadmap has been established to achieve a sustainable energy future.

    According to Abdullahi, the Federal Government has taken practical steps, including the development of Nigeria’s first gazetted National Energy Policy and its implementation plan.

    Other key initiatives, he said, include; localising and domesticating renewable energy solutions, fostering industries for the local production of solar PV panels and batteries, establishing large-scale Solar PV module assembly plants, a modular Green Hydrogen plant, and a Bio-Methanol plant to expand energy access, lower costs, and enhance energy security and investing in solar energy to boost economic development, following successful examples from Sweden, Denmark, and Morocco’s Noor Ouarzazate Solar Complex.

    Abdullahi stressed that renewable energy plays a crucial role in addressing security and employment challenges.

    Read Also: Sterling Bank, Sun King partner to expand access to solar energy in Nigeria

    He suggested integrating solar-powered security cameras in high-risk zones and using tech-driven agricultural solutions to create jobs, particularly for Nigeria’s youth population, which is over 60% under 25 years old.

    He noted that training programs in solar panel technology, smart agriculture, and energy management could generate employment while addressing power deficits.

    He also highlighted the potential for renewable energy to revolutionize education. Countries like Finland and South Korea have successfully used digital tools and smart classrooms powered by renewable energy.

    Abdullahi envisioned a Nigeria where rural schools have uninterrupted electricity through solar microgrids, enabling students in remote areas to access digital learning platforms.

    He said: “The Federal Government has allocated funds for the Solarisation of Critical Infrastructure initiative, which will be implemented by the ECN.

    “This project aims to install up to 2-megawatt solar hybrid mini-grids in federal universities, teaching hospitals, and other public institutions across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. An energy audit is currently underway to determine the specific needs of these institutions, with project completion targeted by year-end. Abdullahi further noted that investing in renewable energy technologies and smart solutions will accelerate Nigeria’s development, ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future.

    “In an era where technological innovation shapes national destinies, Nigeria must embrace renewable energy solutions not as an option, but as a necessity, to leapfrog development hurdles and secure a prosperous energy future.”

  • Firm empowers 2000 youths on Solar energy

    Firm empowers 2000 youths on Solar energy

    As a way of  reducing unemployment and promoting  sustainable energy, Motosh Company Limited has revealed that over 2,000 individuals have been equipped with essential skills through the company’s solar energy training programme. The company also revealed that more are still expected to be train.

    Speaking at the inaugural Summit 1.0: Know More About Solar, the Managing Director of Motosh industry, Mr Quam Omotosho, emphasised the importance of educating potential solar energy investors on the fundamentals of solar systems.

    The event focused on raising awareness about solar technology and empowering youth, setting the stage for a series of educational initiatives.

    He said: “As substandard solar products flood the Nigerian market, it is crucial for investors to have accurate knowledge to avoid falling victim to poor-quality products.

     “Our goal is to expand our customer base by educating individuals about their specific energy needs, enabling them to make informed decisions.”

    The summit highlighted the need to address challenges within the solar market, particularly the lack of consumer understanding.

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    Omotosho noted that by ensuring consumers know their exact energy requirements, the industry can minimise bad experiences caused by inappropriate product choices.

    Reflecting on the impact of the training programme, he shared that many current solar engineers in the country are alumni of the initiative.

    Partnering companies also retain top-performing trainees, creating employment opportunities for youth in the renewable energy sector.

    Omotosho further urged the government to support solar companies, noting that such assistance need not be financial but could come in other forms to strengthen the industry.

    The Human Resources Manager of the company, Miss Ejironke Alajiki,  reiterated the summit’s objective: to educate individuals interested in investing in solar energy and to raise public awareness of its benefits.

    As Nigeria explores renewable energy solutions to address unemployment and environmental challenges, this initiative serves as a proactive measure. Plans for future summits aim to deepen public understanding and advance the country’s solar energy landscape, a critical step for the growth and acceptance of sustainable solutions nationwide.

  • Expert seeks solar energy expansion in rural farming communities

    Expert seeks solar energy expansion in rural farming communities

    With thousands  of Nigerians in rural farming communities lacking access to reliable electricity, Chief Executive, SMEFUNDS, Femi Oye has recommended solar energy  as a viable solution to bridge the energy gap.

    He highlighted the significant impact that solar energy can have in enabling local farmers to cultivate food in off-grid communities.

    Oye pointed out that solar energy has become a pivotal factor in the agricultural sector, providing a range of advantages that go beyond just cost savings. He noted that Nigeria’s energy landscape is evolving quickly, with a growing demand for electricity and a shift in power generation towards renewable, low-carbon sources.

    He stated that solar energy is set to spearhead this shift, with much of the emerging development taking place on farms and in rural areas.

    He suggested that solar energy is set to take the lead, with much of the new growth taking place on agricultural land and in rural areas. He also noted that solar energy can significantly aid in lowering greenhouse gas emissions.

    According to him, Nigeria requires renewable energy sources along with resilient farms and ranches to sustainably provide the food, fiber, and fuel that everyone relies on. He stated: “In the end, the question is not whether we will have solar energy production, but rather where and how it will be implemented.”

    One of the primary environmental advantages of solar energy for farmers, he stated, is its role in promoting sustainability. Unlike fossil fuels, which are limited resources, solar energy offers a renewable solution.

    Read Also: Yobe Govt to provide solar energy in all secondary schools – SSG

    While there are several concerning issues related to the integration of solar and agriculture, he noted there are some encouraging developments that may provide a pathway to sustainability for the industry.

    He commended Amazon for the company’s investments in renewable energy projects combined with agriculture are bringing economic benefits to farmers and new sources of carbon-free energy to the grid.

    But by investing in agrivoltaics—the combination of solar and agriculture, he noted that company was main streaming dual land-use projects that combine farms and wind turbines,adding  farmers around the world have new opportunities to grow their businesses while addressing climate change.

    Amazon is supporting several of these projects as it grows its renewable energy portfolio as part of our Climate Pledge commitment to reach net-zero carbon by 2040.

    Renewable energy projects,he noted   provide benefits not only to farmers, but also to renewable energy developers and the local communities.

    The projects,according to him, can generate jobs, tax revenue, and new sources of energy to local communities.

    But by investing in agrivoltaics—the combination of solar and agriculture, he noted that company was main streaming dual land-use projects that combine farms and wind turbines,adding  farmers around the world have new opportunities to grow their businesses while addressing climate change.

    Amazon is supporting several of these projects as it grows its renewable energy portfolio as part of our Climate Pledge commitment to reach net-zero carbon by 2040.

    Renewable energy projects,he noted   provide benefits not only to farmers, but also to renewable energy developers and the local communities.

    The projects,according to him, can generate jobs, tax revenue, and new sources of energy to local communities.

    According to him, scientists from Swansea University have developed a new tool to help identify optimal photovoltaic (PV) materials capable of maximising crop growth while generating solar power.

    The  study published in Solar RRL, academics from the University’s Department of Physics ,he noted have been exploring the effect of semi-transparent PV materials placed over crops — an exemplary application of agrivoltaics (solar panels combined with agricultural settings).

    As part of the work, he contined that the team developed an innovative freeware tool that predicts the light transmission, absorption, and power generation of different PV materials nearly anywhere on the globe using geographical, physical, and electrical measurements.