The Nigerian government has announced a plan to transition all federal tertiary institutions off the national grid by 2027, moving them to renewable energy sources like solar power.

This initiative is part of the ongoing “Energising Education Project,” which aims to reduce pressure on the national grid and promote sustainable power generation.

Education Minister, Tunji Alausa, confirmed that 24 federal institutions have already switched to solar energy. Speaking during a tour of the solar-powered facility at Yakubu Gowon University (University of Abuja), Alausa praised the initiative for enhancing academic activities across campuses.Alausa emphasized, “With constant power supply, you unleash high economic activity.”

The solar farm at the University of Abuja alone is expected to generate 3.3MW daily, providing uninterrupted electricity for the campus.As part of Phase 4 of the project, eight additional institutions, including Ahmadu Bello University and the University of Lagos, will join the renewable energy shift.

Over 100MW of power has already been generated in previous phases, benefiting over 600,000 students and 50,000 staff members across the nation.

This initiative aligns with the government’s broader goal of increasing reliance on renewable energy, which also includes plans for local solar panel production to save foreign exchange and create jobs.

Alausa concluded, “This project will positively impact the quality of education in Nigeria, stimulate businesses within campuses, and boost the national economy.”

By 2027, all federal-owned tertiary institutions are expected to be powered by renewable energy, marking a significant step in Nigeria’s transition to more sustainable energy sources.