Groundbreaking of Solar PV Module Assembly Plant at Akpugo

History was made on the 27th of July 2024 as the Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology Chief Geoffrey Uche Nnaji, carries out the groundbreaking Ceremony for the construction of Solar PV Modules Assembly Plant at Ihunekwagu Autonomous Community AKPUGO, Nkanu West LGA of Enugu State.

In his words after the ceremony, the Director General Energy Commission of Nigeria Dr Mustapha Abdullahi, who is supervised by the Minister said,"The need to boost access to electricity in Nigeria cannot be overstated. Despite the country's vast resources and potential, the Nigerian grid remains inefficient and inaccessible to many parts of the country. This inadequacy hampers the country's socioeconomic 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 decentralized power source that can reach the remotest corners of our country, bringing light and hope to all."

The DG ECN reiterated that the event is a giant step towards translating the Commission's research outputs into indigenous solutions that can transform the country's energy landscape.

According to him, the assembling plant is not just a technological advancement; but also, a testament to dedication to fostering home-grown innovation and self-reliance. It also perfectly aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu."

He further revealed that "Our various Research Centres across the geopolitical zones of Nigeria have been at the forefront of developing demonstrable products that address energy-related problems. From bio-energy systems that could reduce over dependence on fossil fuels and environmental pollution to solar drying systems that aid rural farmers in preserving their produce. Our research and development outputs are making enormous impacts on our nation's economy."

Dr. Abdullahi strongly believes that the Solar PV module assembling plant will significantly boost the Commission's development capacity to domesticate the solar PV technology in Nigeria. He commended the research institutions and individuals who had hitherto made commendable efforts to produce PV modules with the limited resources available to them.

He further pointed out that Energy Commission under his forthright leadership is taking a major leap forward, moving from small-scale attempts to a full-fledged solar PV module production facility that has great potential to meet the country's growing energy needs. This project, according to the Energy expert is also a step forward for job creation and providing our youth and skilled professionals with opportunities to contribute and benefit from the growing renewable energy sector. The project will not only reduce the country's overdependence on importation, but also significantly lowers the cost of PV modules, making solar energy more accessible to every Nigerian household.

In appreciating the Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, the DG said, "Your belief in this project and your commitment to its success have been invaluable and extremely crucial. Your leadership has made it possible for us to reach this milestone, and we look forward to your continued support as we advance our renewable energy goals". He also expressed his sincere appreciation to the dedicated team at the Energy Commission of Nigeria, commending them for their hard-work, commitment, and vision, which he said have been instrumental in making today's achievement possible".

Other distinguished guests who accompanied the Minister to the event include, House of Rep. members from Enugu State, Directors-General of NASRDA, NNMDA, PRODA, NICFOST, NACETEM, NITR and NBTI.

The Director General Energy Commission of Nigeria Dr Mustapha Abdullahi laying the foundation stone of the Solar PV Assembly Plant at Ihunekwu.

The Director General Energy Commission of Nigeria Dr Mustapha Abdullahi making his remarks at the Occasion.

The Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology Chief Geoffrey Uche Nnaji flanked by the DG 3rd left and the others.