ASHENEWS reports that the federal government says it is set to reduce dependence on imported energy sources with the construction of a solar PV module assembling plant in the country.
The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, stated this during the ground-breaking of the solar PV module assembling plant at Ihunekwagu community, Akpugo, in Nkanu West of Enugu State.
This online platform reports that 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.
The minister who described the projects as being part of efforts to support Nigeria’s energy transition said that the project when completed will strengthen the sector in the country.
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.”
He added that 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.
“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.”
Speaking further, the DG/CEO of, the Energy Commission of Nigeria, Dr. Abdullahi Mustapha, said that the project will also boost electricity demand in Nigeria.
“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.”
