The project demonstrates the potential of solar power to support sustainable development and improve energy efficiency
The United Nations has introduced a solar energy project in Nigeria as part of efforts to promote clean power solutions and strengthen sustainable energy use. The installation, located at the UN House in Abuja, is designed to reduce electricity costs, decrease carbon emissions and encourage wider adoption of renewable technologies, as reported by News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), a partner of TV BRICS.
The initiative was inaugurated during the launch of Phase I of the Greening of the UN House project. Addressing participants at the ceremony, UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria Mohamed Fall emphasised that the project reflects the organisation’s commitment to accelerating the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy.
According to Fall, the installation features a 400-kilowatt-peak solar photovoltaic microgrid that can be expanded to 700 kilowatts, supported by 650 kilowatt-hours of lithium-ion battery storage to ensure energy resilience. The system is also equipped with artificial intelligence-driven energy management and Internet of Things (IoT) monitoring technologies, allowing real-time tracking of power generation and consumption.
The solar infrastructure is expected to reduce electricity costs at the UN House by approximately 40 per cent. In addition, the project will cut grid electricity consumption by nearly one million kilowatt hours per year and reduce carbon emissions by around 300 tonnes.
Mohamed Fall noted that the project aligns with Nigeria’s climate commitments and the provisions of the Electricity Act 2023. He also highlighted the country’s renewable energy potential, particularly in solar power, stressing that reliable electricity remains essential for economic growth, productivity and social development.
The initiative has been implemented with technical support from the United Nations Development Programme and reflects cooperation among several UN agencies based at the facility. Plans are already in place for Phase II, which will expand solar capacity towards 700 kilowatts and move the complex closer to achieving near-complete clean energy autonomy.
Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency Abba Aliyu described the project as a demonstration of the practical and economic value of renewable solutions, noting that around US$23 billion will be required to electrify underserved communities across the country. Minister of Power Adebayo Adelabu, represented by Permanent Secretary Mahmuda Mamman, said the initiative supports Nigeria’s energy transition strategy, while Minister of Environment Balarabe Lawal expressed confidence that the project would inspire broader adoption of environmentally friendly energy technologies nationwide.
African Times published this article in partnership with International Media Network TV BRICS
