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Tag: Solar

  • Simon Okeke Jr. inspires youths, unveils solar-powered estate

    Simon Okeke Jr. inspires youths, unveils solar-powered estate

    At the 20th UIU Umu Igbo Unite National Convention, Simon Okeke Jr., a notable Nigerian-American entrepreneur,  real estate developer and former SSA on Foreign Direct Investment to the former Anambra Governor Willie Obiano, delivered an insightful speech that resonated with many Nigerians in the diaspora. 

    Okeke shared his entrepreneurial journey and introduced his vision for the future of real estate in Nigeria.

    Okeke, the Founder and CEO of LoadzPro, a tech startup supported by JP Morgan and Techstars, and Chairman and CEO of Simon Mortgage Group, spoke about his experiences in the tech and real estate sectors. 

    He highlighted the launch of Dreamland Luxury Estates, a venture aimed at developing 24/7 solar-powered estates and smart homes in Abuja, Lagos, Enugu, and Anambra State.

    “Our aim is to provide affordable luxury housing with flexible payment and mortgage plans similar to those in the United States,” Okeke explained. “We have partnered with the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria and Civil Service Society Organizations to make homeownership more accessible.”

    Okeke also discussed opportunities for Nigerians to own homes in the U.S. through foreign national mortgage programs. “These programs require minimal down payments, making it easier for Nigerians to own homes in the U.S.,” he said.

    Read Also: ‘Solar plant will reduce imports on energy solutions’

    Okeke announced the launch of Dreamland Luxury Estates’ new website, which will facilitate global access to homes and luxury apartments in Nigeria. “We are committed to ensuring the same level of safety and security standards as those in the U.S.,” he noted.

    In addition to his entrepreneurial endeavors, Okeke has a background in consulting for Fortune 500 companies such as Deloitte, Adecco, Google, and Red Hat (an IBM subsidiary). He has served as a Special Advisor on Foreign Direct Investment to former Anambra State Governor Willie Obiano and as a board member of a state government investment agency. Okeke has also contributed as a Special Advisor to a UN Ambassador.

    Educated at Georgetown University with a Master’s in Management, Okeke is dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship and investment opportunities in Nigeria. “Empowering individuals and communities to build sustainable wealth is at the core of my mission,” he stated.

    Okeke’s leadership and vision have positioned him as a significant figure in both local and international business and political landscapes. His speech at the UIU Umu Igbo Unite National Convention has inspired many within the Nigerian diaspora community.

  • ‘Solar plant will reduce imports on energy solutions’

    ‘Solar plant will reduce imports on energy solutions’

    Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, has said establishment of solar PV module assembling plant will reduce dependence on imported energy solutions.

    He spoke at the ground-breaking of solar PV module assembling plant at Ihunekwagu autonomous community, Akpugo, in Nkanu West of Enugu State.

    The plant is one of the projects of National Centre for Energy Research and Development (NCERD), a division of Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), at University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

    Nnaji said: “National Centre for Energy Research and Development (NCERD), University of Nigeria, Nsukka, through the efforts of the Federal Government, our ministry and Energy Commission of Nigeria, deemed it necessary to delve into the assembling of solar PV modules as part of its renewable energy development. Today, as we break the ground for a new solar PV module assembling plant here in Akpugo, Enugu State, we are not merely starting the construction of a building; we are also laying the foundation for a brighter future in the energy sector in Nigeria. Similar projects will be replicated at other centres of ECN nationwide, namely Benin, Ilorin, Lagos, Bauchi and Sokoto to cut across the six geopolitical zones.

    Read Also: Fed Govt targets $50m funding for state solar plant pilots

    “The establishment of this plant will economically create numerous job opportunities for the local community, contributing significantly to the economic development of Enugu and Nigeria at large. It will provide training and skill development for our youths and the entire workforce, ensuring that we have the expertise needed to lead in the renewable energy sector.’’

    The DG/CEO, Energy Commission of Nigeria, Dr. Abdullahi Mustapha, said: “The need to boost access to electricity in Nigeria cannot be overstated. Despite our resources and potential, Nigerian grid electricity remains inefficient and inaccessible to many parts of our country. This inadequacy hampers our socio-economic development and affects the quality of life for millions of Nigerians. In addressing these challenges, photovoltaic (PV) electricity emerges as a crucial solution. Solar energy offers a sustainable, reliable and decentralised power source that can reach the remotest corners of our country, bringing light and hope to all.’’

  • Ondo varsity Alumni donates 5KVA Solar to alma mater

    Ondo varsity Alumni donates 5KVA Solar to alma mater

    The Alumni Association of the Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, Ondo state, has donated a 5KVA solar power generating set worth N4m to the exams and Records Unit of the University.

    Speaking at the commissioning of the project the Alumni president, Olumide  Olugbemi-Gabriel said the project  was executed to provide uninterrupted power supply to the Exams and Records Unit of the university to guarantee a seamless processing of academic transcripts.

    The president noted that the alumni had complained about delayed processing of their transcripts caused by inadequate power supply to town and the rationing of electricity on campus due to the high cost of powering the institution with generators.

    He said the solar power project would foster more robust relationship between the varsity management and its alumni who either need transcript for admission purposes or for greener pastures outside the country.

    Read Also: Cocoa farmers, firm, settle differences in Ondo

    The president who assured the Alumni would carry out more projects for the benefits of the University, disclosed the intention of the alumni body to spend about 50 million naira on the ongoing hostel project in 2024.

    He called on alumni members across the globe to provide financial support for the hostel project which aims at addressing accommodation shortage in the institution.

    The Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Olugbenga Ige hailed the Alumni Association for always providing critical infrastructure for the university.

    Prof Ige who noted that the computers, furniture and the solar power generating set in the Exams and Records unit of the University were donated by the Alumni Association.

    He expressed delight that the Alumni Association has been immensely helpful as two departmental alumni sets equally carried out solar power projects in the department of Economics and Biochemistry.

  • Lagos community gets solar street lights

    Lagos community gets solar street lights

    Chairman of Yaba Local Council Development Area (LCDA) Dr. Kayode Omiyale, has inaugurated solar street lights on Adesina Street, Lagos.

    The project was powered by Special Adviser of Media and ICT, Oluwaseyi Afeni.

    At the unveiling, there was presentation of grants to traders as part of Traders Support Scheme, aimed at bolstering businesses.

    Omiyale noted that the installation of solar street lights will help in the illumination of the street.

    He said: “With such projects, we believe solar energy solutions will improve quality of life and provide more opportunities.”

    Speaking after the unveiling, Afeni said: “My idea about governance is to meet needs of the people. Adesina street has been dark for years. When the CDA brought it to my knowledge, I also reasoned with them that it was time to light up the street.

    Read Also: ESUT VC commissions solar power system donated by NIFESAF

    “We’ve about 50-100 houses, and that street is one of the most dangerous roads at night. It is a dark spot. Many people commuting through Yaba, Somolu, UNILAG, pass through that street.

    “Other needs of the community will also be addressed. About four women with small businesses were  empowered”.

    Some community members appreciated the project, noting that the solar street lights will beautify and enhance security.

    Mrs. Modupe said: “This is an exciting moment for us at Adesina Street. Before now, we did not have streetlights, so visibility was threatened at night.

    “It is a timely intervention, and we are positive it will improve security and aid movement at night time’.”

  • Tech firm drives innovation with solar solution

    Tech firm drives innovation with solar solution

    In the heart of Ilorin, Kwara State, a small but vibrant tech hub called Makers and Leaders Hub (MALhub) has been nurturing the dreams of aspiring entrepreneurs and tech enthusiasts for a few years now. Despite its modest size, MALhub has consistently punched above its weight, optimising resources and talent to deliver exceptional results. The hub has served as a platform for essential conversations with leading figures in the global tech scene. It has also created rigorous training programmes, producing graduates well-equipped in a wide range of tech fields. Graduates have gained expertise in cybersecurity, product design and management, data analysis and full-stack development, showcasing the hub’s commitment to well-rounded tech education.

    Their journey hasn’t been without its challenges, however. The hub has not been spared from the power supply issues facing the rest of the country. The unreliable electricity supply has hampered their ability to provide a consistent learning environment and hindered the full potential of the hub.

    But a recent development has sparked a new chapter for MALhub. Thanks to a collaborative effort between the Akomolafe Foundation and the Governance Advancement Initiative for Nigeria (GAIN), the hub has now been equipped with a solar energy system. This shift to sustainable power has brought immense relief and an air of sustainability to the hub and its community.

    Prior to the solar installation, MALhub’s operations were dictated by the whims of the local grid. Long power outages disrupted workshops, stalled project development, and created an overall frustrating learning experience. “There were times when we’d be in the middle of a coding session and suddenly, the power would cut out,” explains Cynthia Okafor, the hub’s female lead who honed her skills at MALhub. “It was incredibly demotivating, especially when working on tight deadlines.”

    Read Also: Sanwo-Olu distributes rice to Lagos councils, LCDAs

    This unreliable power supply wasn’t just an inconvenience; it also impacted the financial well-being of the hub. “We were constantly having to rely on generators, which are expensive to run and not environmentally friendly,” says Kamaldeen Kehinde, managing partner at MALhub.

    The arrival of the solar panels has been a game-changer. Now, the distraction of generators has been replaced by the quiet efficiency of solar power. The sustainable energy source has transformed the learning environment at MALhub. Workshops and training sessions can now proceed uninterrupted, allowing trainees to focus on their studies and skill development.

    The impact goes beyond just uninterrupted learning. The new system provides a stable platform for MALhub to expand its offerings. Plans are underway to introduce new courses and workshops, catering to a wider range of students who can now take advantage of the reliable power supply. This expansion ably supports Nigeria’s quest for developing and massively growing local human capacity in the areas of Information Technology, a core foundational pillar of its aspirations to get onboard the fast-moving Fourth Industrial Revolution train.

    One of the most praise-worthy aspects of MALhub’s work is its dedication to upskilling women in the tech sector. MALhub actively encourages women to pursue careers in technology by providing a comfortable, inclusive learning environment.

  • Simba launches hassle free solar solution to customers

    Simba Group, a leader in renewable energy, has unveiled the Simba Solar ‘Talegent’ Series of solutions which is designed to simplify the switch to solar energy for homes across Nigeria.

    The Talegent series brings to the market advanced technology, featuring specialised solar inverters equipped with MPPT Charge Controllers and versatile battery combinations, including the more advanced Lithium Ion.

    The Talegent range of products meets various home energy needs and stands out as a unique solution in the market.

    Speaking at a Media event organised to launch the product recently in Victoria Island Lagos, Sandipan Bhattacharya, Business Head of Simba Group’s Power Division, championed this new energy solution, stating, “The Talegent Series marks a milestone in Simba Solar’s journey towards sustainable and efficient home energy use. At a time when energy costs are rising, solar solutions provide home users with a unique opportunity to enjoy regular power supply and reduce costs. However, these solutions can be quite complex and confusing. We at Simba Solar want to simplify the selection process for our customers.”

    Read Also: How Nigeria, others can attract foreign gas investors

    He was joined by Adebimpe Adebisi, Head of Retail at Simba, who added, “Talegent embodies Simba Solar’s commitment to ‘Going Solar Made Simple’. Designed with user convenience in mind, these systems are user-friendly and quick to set up, making the transition to solar energy easy for our customers. We are committed to guiding them through every step of the process.”

    Simba Solar’s Talegent Solutions will be introduced through the company’s authorized retail network, providing flexible options to accommodate different energy needs and financial considerations.

    Responding to questions concerning the affordability of the product, the Head of Retail explained that the product is far cheaper than most of their competitors adding that “the average Nigeria can afford our products as we have various products that comes with different prices. Customers only need to choose the one they can afford.”

  • Nigeria auto maker partners US group on solar-powered tricycles

    Nigeria auto maker partners US group on solar-powered tricycles

    Nigeria’s drive for foreign direct investment received a major boost recently when Okafor Motors, an Enugu based automaker and pioneer of the made in Nigeria solar electric powered tricycles entered a partnership with Sustainable Communities Corporation, a US-based non for profit organisation.

    This new partnership is to set up NrG Company (pronounced energy) and produce several units of solar powered  tricycles named Nikeke and ultimately boost Nigeria’s transportation system as well as providing for its operators and lifting them out from the poverty index.

    SCC, which is associated with famed battery technologists; Wisconsin Batteries (WinBat) had followed the inventions of Okafor when he launched his prototype solar powered tricycle and vowed to do something positively drastic.

    On the new partnership, the visibly excited Chief Engineer at Okafor Motors; Anthony Obinna Okafor who for many years has played well in the Nigerian renewable energy industry said, “If you would ask me if I believe in angel investors, my answer is definitely yes. Do I also believe in predestination? Oh yes! The reality before me after the prototype development, was that my dreams will remain mere dreams. But somehow, I kept the faith against all odds and today my instincts have been proven right.”

    Under this partnership, so many options will be explored. Together with mass production of the prototype, we are also considering several other modifications inclusive of quadracycles and electric bikes.

    Other than financing this new partnership, SCC via their subsidiary, WinBat Company will be deploying their hemp battery technology, ensuring that our solar-electric tricycles will become a serious contender with the conventional gasoline tricycles.

    Read Also: Onjeh advocates LG, judicial autonomy, state police to tackle insecurity

    Also Jeff Greene, a spokesperson for SCC/WinBat spoke on reasons for the partnership with what he considers a “Nigerian Success Story”

    According to him “In June 2020, the story of Anthony Obinna Okafor, a Nigerian engineer/entrepreneur, who built a three-wheel solar/plugin hybrid electric passenger vehicle in just 21 days went viral. The vehicle was said to run for about a 70 km range on a single charge. Anthony’s plan was to mass produce that solar electric tricycle.

    “SCC with Okafor motors led by Engr Anthony Okafor will be establishing a new for-profit subsidiary in Nigeria called NrG Company (pronounced “energy”) and will partner with Anthony and his team to not only produce the vehicle under the trade name “Nikeke,” but all manner of batteries under the trade name “NiBat” and other energy related products in the future. In the near term NrG Co. will also perform battery and plastic recycling.”

    Greene, CEO of Wisconsin Battery Company affirmed his pleasure in the partnership with Okafor Motors, Anthony and his Nigerian team, and looks forward to bringing the WinBat knowledge, technologies, and funding arrangements to the team, to help fast track this effort in Nigeria.

  • Firm plans to establish solar-powered charging infrastructure

    Firm plans to establish solar-powered charging infrastructure

    Independent Capital-a visionary project finance firm has revealed plans for establishing a robust network of solar-powered charging infrastructure to support the operations of its e-trike fleet.

    Its Chief Executive Officer, Dr. George Nwangwu, who made the announcement in Abuja yesterday, added that the  innovative strategy will not only tackles the obstacles associated with adopting electric vehicles but would also actively contribute to the establishment of a sustainable energy ecosystem.

    “We are dedicated to reducing carbon emissions, alleviating congestion and improving the overall quality of transportation for the population. Independent Capital aims to create a greener and more efficient transportation ecosystem that enhances the lives of individuals and contributes to a cleaner environment, “he noted.

    According to him, with the company’s fusion of financial expertise, a profound understanding of environmental and social impact, a commitment to reducing carbon emissions and  improving transportation quality, “the company aims to reshape the nation’s mobility landscape for a cleaner and more prosperous future”, adding that “it is charting new territories in the realm of sustainable finance by announcing ambitious plans that signify a paradigm shift in Nigeria’s approach to eco-friendly initiatives”.

    Similarly, Nwangwu said, its strategic approach combines financial expertise with a profound understanding of environmental and social impact, positioning the firm as a catalyst for positive change in the country’s transportation sector.

    He added that the cornerstone of Independent Capital’s visionary plans involves the unbundling of its three-wheeler Electric Vehicle (e-trike) which signals a significant move towards eco-conscious mobility.

    According to the firm’s CEO, in response to the recent removal of fuel subsidies, the Nigerian market is experiencing a fundamental shift, creating an opportune moment for innovative solutions in the e-mobility sector which “Independent Capital is well-positioned to capitalize on this shift by introducing sustainable transportation alternatives that cater to the evolving needs of the market”.

    Read Also: Guinness Nigeria commissions solar-powered motorised water facility in Oyo communities

    Also,speaking, the Chief Finance Officer (CFO) of the company, Mr. Moses Saromi said “with the e-mobility sector undergoing significant developments, driven by environmental concerns, technological advancements and shifting government policies our firm is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of transportation in Nigeria,”

    He revealed that  the demand for e-mobility solutions in Nigeria is projected to grow exponentially by 15% CAGR and thus, Independent Capital stands at the forefront of providing sustainable alternatives to traditional vehicles and that with  a focus on e-trikes, the company strategically positions itself to capture a significant share of the expanding market to  meet the diverse needs of individual consumers and delivery services to the Nigerian society.

    He added that in  the pursuit of a cleaner and more efficient transportation ecosystem, Independent Capital remains a driving force in the nation’s journey towards a greener future.

  • FG trains 110 women in solar installation, tiling, others

    FG trains 110 women in solar installation, tiling, others

    The federal government has concluded the training of 110 women in solar installations, Tiling and Masonry, air-conditioning, and Refrigeration.

    The women were also trained in generator repairs, electrical works, plumbing, and piping.

    The training was concluded on Tuesday, November 29, in Abuja by the Maryam Babangida National Centre for Women Development in pursuance of President Tinubu’s, support for women’s economic empowerment, demonstrated by his five-point agenda on women empowerment.

    Director General (DG) of the agency, Dr Asabe Bashir said participants were drawn from the 36 states of the Federation.

    Her words: “The programme has from inception to date trained over 1300 young females, making the aforementioned skills to be gender-responsive and inclusive.  The Centre has empowered young women and girls economically, so as to enhance sustainable livelihood and national development.

    “Moreover, some of the Female Artisans will readily address basic artisanship needs in the rural communities, especially in areas where men are not allowed to enter places habited by women for cultural and religious reasons.

    Read Also: We’re lighting up Niger Delta with solar-powered streetlights, says NDDC boss

    “This year, a total of 110 young women and girls drawn from across the 36 States of the Federation were trained. In other to meet the current day challenges of sustainable energy supply; for the first time, participants of the Female Artisan Programme were taken through solar installation training.

    “Artisanship jobs such as Tiling and Masonry, air-conditioning and Refrigeration, Generator Repairs, Electrical Works, Plumbing and Piping. The Centre vigorously pursues programmes aimed at upholding and promoting practice in the area of women and gender development; in recognition of the fact that women’s economic empowerment is the first step to freedom.”

    The DG said the agency does not just train the women and leave them but follows up constantly and has recorded a good number of their trainees who are doing well in their various communities.

  • Firm to build solar plant, targets 750KVA by 2027

    Firm to build solar plant, targets 750KVA by 2027

    Determined to overcome electricity power challenge in its operations, Arla Foods Nigeria, manufacturers maker of Dano milk, has unveiled a four year energy transition plan to build a solar power plant for its dairy farm in Damau, Kaduna State, aiming to generate up to 750KVA installed capacity by 2027.

     The Managing Director, Arla Foods Nigeria, Peder Pedersen, disclosed this while speaking at the opening session of the 2023 Nordic Nigeria Connect held yesterday in Lagos.  He explained that the energy transition plan aligns with the company’s sustainability strategy and vision to create the future of dairy that brings health and inspiration to the world, naturally, by taking actions that support a stronger planet, thereby improving the environment for future generations. Besides, he disclosed that the solar plant will serve as a big relief for the farm which has been operating on diesel generators since its inception in May, as there is no connectivity to the national grid.

     In the same vein, the Senior Manager, Corporate Affairs, Arla Foods Nigeria, Akalaka Obazei, explained that the Phase 1 of the project would be a hybrid solution of 250kVA standard solar plus diesel that will lead to an annual diesel cost saving of about Euro 143, 910, while also reducing carbon emissions (CO2e) by about 300 – 350 tons per year with one-year payback period.

     She further disclosed that the power generation is expected to grow to 550kVA installed capacity between 2024 and 2025, while the full potential of up to 750kVA is expected to be achieved by 2027 when the farm reaches full operation.

     “Right from inception during the farm design phase, we had the energy transition in our mind, we have the roof space that can give us the targeted 750kVA already in place and there is room for further expansion,”Obazei said.

    Read Also: Firms partner on solar-powered refrigeration

     On financing for the project, she noted that Arla’s 8500 farmer-owners will be bankrolling the project as they strongly believe in energy transition and in line with their long-time commitment to sustainability. She added that businesses, including Arla Farm, must shift toward renewable energy, mainly due to the increasing cost of fossil fuel and its environmental implications.

     The Senior Manager, Raw Milk Supply and Production, Arla Foods, Snorri Sigurdsson, stated that the farm is the most advanced in Africa given the fact that it was designed with the highest known standards in the world and operates with global best practices.

     According to Sigurdsson, the farm, which has a high-yielding breed from the best European farms, boasts state-of-the-art technology for optimal cow comfort and performance of both cows and feed.

     He noted that Arla Foods remains committed to sustainable dairy farming in Nigeria, stating that it is investing a lot in backward integration to ensure that Nigeria becomes self-sufficient in milk production.