UNN gets N600m solar power plant

Azura Power West Africa Limited has donated two plants which value is about N604 million to the University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN), Enugu State, as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility.

Performing the ground-breaking ceremony at the Faculty of Engineering, UNN, the Managing Director of Azura Power West Africa, Mr Edu Okeke, said the inauguration of the 240KW solar project and a car park was to support the university community to strengthen academic performance and further enhance and promote education in Nigeria.

Represented by the Head of Corporate Affairs, Mr Murtala Bello, Okeke described electricity as a basic infrastructure, a major factor of production that would not only promote learning but serve as security to protect lives and property in the university.

He said, “Today at the ground-breaking ceremony of the 240kw solar and car park project at the University of Nigeria Nsukka we hereby flag off a project under Our Power to Change Programme aimed at providing unlimited and reliable energy, as well as sustainable energy mix to the Faculty of Engineering.

“This project will also expose students to hands-on renewable experience and future careers. It will encourage energy efficiency. Environmental benefits include reducing carbon footprint and mitigating the effects of climate change. The project is expected to be delivered in 105 days.”

Earlier, the Vice Chancellor of the university, Professor Charles Arizechukwu, expressed delight with the donation

Represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Administration, Professor Romanus Okonkwo, he noted that the project was unprecedented and a laudable initiative other corporate and private organisations must emulate.

He added that, “We shall continue to partner with Azura Power in all relevant areas of concern to enhance speedy and needed development in the University community, not only in the area of power or renewable energy but in all areas of basic infrastructure development.”

Also speaking, the Dean, Faculty of Engineering, Professor Emenike Ejiiogu, who described the donation as a smooth transition from hydro and gas-powered electricity to clean and renewable energy devoid of undue interference by quacks, said the Faculty of Engineering and the Associated Centres of Excellence would experience accelerated growth in research and study.