The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has taken a significant step toward improving electricity access in Kano State with the deployment of major power infrastructure to two critical institutions. The agency has commissioned a 6-megawatt hybrid mini-grid at Bayero University, Kano (BUK) while simultaneously launching construction of a 1.5MW solar mini-grid at the National Orthopaedic Hospital in Dala.
Reviving Abandoned Infrastructure
This new intervention represents a revival and upgrade of previously abandoned renewable energy infrastructure at BUK. Although the Federal Government had completed a 3.5MW renewable energy plant at the university back in 2019, the project became non-functional due to poor management practices.
The REA's current project not only resuscitates the moribund facility but expands its capacity to 6MW with improved technology. The upgrade includes a transition to lithium battery systems for enhanced sustainability and reliability, ensuring the university community enjoys stable electricity for teaching, research, and learning activities.
National Public Sector Solarization Initiative
Speaking during the unveiling ceremony in Dala, REA's Managing Director Abba Aliyu explained that both projects form part of the National Public Sector Solarization Initiative introduced by President Bola Tinubu. This ambitious program aims to close electricity access gaps across key sectors of Nigeria's economy.
"This intervention is one of many under the National Public Sector Solarization Initiative, designed to support four critical sectors of the economy – education, health, agriculture, and security," Aliyu stated. He emphasized that the agency's mandate includes taking electricity to unserved areas and strengthening power supply in underserved communities, particularly critical institutions like the Orthopaedic Hospital.
The managing director revealed that hybrid mini-grids have already been deployed in 15 federal universities across Nigeria, including the recently upgraded facility at BUK.
Healthcare Transformation Through Reliable Power
The healthcare sector stands to benefit significantly from these power interventions. Aliyu highlighted that the 1.5MW solar mini-grid at the National Orthopaedic Hospital in Dala will provide sustainable electricity, particularly crucial as the facility prepares to install new MRI equipment that requires uninterrupted power supply.
"This creates a nexus between our mandate and that of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, which is providing MRI equipment. We are ensuring the hospital gets reliable electricity to operate it effectively," Aliyu added.
Dr. Isa Nurudeen, the hospital's Medical Director, expressed gratitude to President Tinubu and the REA for the timely intervention. He noted that the project would substantially reduce the hospital's dependence on expensive diesel generators while improving overall service delivery to patients.
"With this intervention, we are good to go. It is coming at exactly the time we need it, as we prepare to run our MRI services 24 hours a day. This will reduce the cost of care for patients because power is the biggest operational cost for any hospital," Nurudeen explained.
The medical director further emphasized that the solar mini-grid would ease financial burdens on healthcare facilities, especially those on Band A electricity tariffs, while also reducing environmental impact and improving overall hospital efficiency.
Broader Context of Power Interventions
This development follows a similar recent project executed by the Federal Government at Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH) to address chronic power shortages and high electricity bills. The AKTH intervention became particularly urgent following a dispute between the hospital and the Kano Electricity Distribution Company that led to a blackout at the facility, resulting in the tragic deaths of several patients.
The REA's ongoing efforts demonstrate the government's commitment to addressing Nigeria's power challenges through renewable energy solutions, particularly targeting institutions that provide essential services to the public.
