Atiku commissions solar energy centre in Yola

Former Vice President and founder of American University of Nigeria (AUN) Yola, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, at the weekend, commissioned a 97.2 kilowatts Solar Energy Center and administrative building at the AUN premises in Yola.

The Project Director, Mr. Abubakar Bunu, said the solar energy plant was designed in keeping with the sustainable development of the university.

Bunu said the solar array was unique and special because it is the largest and first of its kind in any Nigerian university.

According to him, the project was cost effective inasmuch as both diesel and national grid tariffs were becoming more expensive.

“The solar has 300 panels and generating 120KVA with a total of 97.2 kilowatts.

“The estimated annual power generation of the solar is 149,793 kWp which is equivalent to diesel consumption of about 72,000 liters per annum, ” Bunu said.

He said the solar project was one more step toward making the University less dependent on diesel.

The new admin building according to Banu, is an example of ecological responsible architecture

“It is a nontraditional and innovative building which embodies the best in sustainable construction and represent a model for Nigeria, Africa, and the world”

The building was named Dr, Jennifer Jamilah Douglas Abubakar in recognition of her contribution in making AUN a reality.