FUPRE secures N3.5bn solar power project

The Federal University of Petroleum Resources Effurun (FUPRE) has secured approval for a N3.5 billion solar power project, aimed at addressing energy challenges and strengthening academic and research activities within the institution. The Institution’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ezekiel O. Agbalagba, disclosed this while briefing journalists on his one year administration. The approval he said was granted […]

The Federal University of Petroleum Resources Effurun (FUPRE) has secured approval for a N3.5 billion solar power project, aimed at addressing energy challenges and strengthening academic and research activities within the institution.

The Institution’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ezekiel O. Agbalagba, disclosed this while briefing journalists on his one year administration.

The approval he said was granted through the Federal Ministry of Power Nigeria as part of efforts to ensure a sustainable and uninterrupted electricity supply on campus.

He noted that inadequate power supply remains one of the critical challenges confronting the university, stressing that the intervention would significantly reduce reliance on diesel-powered generators and cut energy costs.

Agbalagba explained that the solar power initiative is designed to provide stable electricity across key facilities, including lecture halls, laboratories, hostels, and administrative buildings, thereby improving the overall learning and research environment.

“The approval of this solar project marks a major step in our drive towards energy sustainability. It will not only enhance teaching and research but also position the university as a model for clean energy adoption,” he said.

He added that the project aligns with FUPRE’s core mandate as a specialised institution focused on energy education, innovation, and technology development.

He further revealed that the university has already begun complementary energy initiatives, including the installation of solar-powered systems in selected facilities and the expansion of energy-efficient infrastructure across campus.

He emphasised that stable power supply is critical to supporting ongoing digital transformation efforts, including smart classrooms, e-learning platforms, and advanced research laboratories.

He said beyond the solar power project, the university is pursuing other infrastructure and development programmes, including hostel expansion, laboratory upgrades, and enhanced security systems, to meet growing student population and academic demands.