NIMR Moves Towards Solving Power Challenges with Commissioning of N300m 100 KVA Solar Power System

• Minister lauds donation by ECEWS

The 100 KVA Solar Power System                                      _{Photo: NIMR/Amaka}

The Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) has taken a major step towards addressing its long-standing power supply challenges with the commissioning of a 100 KVA Solar Power System to support critical research and diagnostic facilities at the institute.

The solar power solution, commissioned on Friday, May 22, was donated by the Excellence Community Education Welfare Scheme (ECEWS).

The project is expected to provide uninterrupted electricity to key laboratories and research facilities at NIMR, significantly improving operational efficiency, reducing dependence on fossil fuel-powered electricity and supporting environmental sustainability.

Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, the Director-General of NIMR, Professor John Oladapo Obafunwa, represented by the Director of Administration, Mr. Bitrus Nelson, described the intervention as strategic and timely.

He said reliable and uninterrupted electricity supply remains critical to NIMR’s mandate of generating scientific evidence for national health policies and interventions.

“Today’s event represents much more than the commissioning of a 100 KVA facility. It signifies a shared commitment to sustainable development, resilient research systems and strengthening global partnerships in advancing public health outcomes,” he said.

According to him, the solar power solution now supports several critical operational areas within the institute, including the COBAS laboratory for HIV viral load testing, molecular laboratories for PCR-based analysis, the biobank facility housing ultra-low temperature freezers, seminar and training facilities, and key support units.

The DG noted that uninterrupted power supply is essential for laboratory-based research, cold chain systems, emergency preparedness and data management, stressing that the new installation would help preserve the integrity of valuable research specimens and ensure continuity of critical services.

The Managing Director of ECEWS, Dr. Andy Eyo, described NIMR as a vital institution for Nigeria’s public health and global health security architecture.

According to him, the solar project is part of broader efforts by ECEWS to strengthen healthcare infrastructure across Nigeria.

“Without NIMR, we would be more challenged than we can imagine. NIMR has played a significant role in Nigeria’s public health history and in responding to emerging public health threats,” he said.

Dr. Eyo disclosed that the N300 million project comprises 312 solar panels of 705 watts each, two 209 KVA lithium battery units and two 50 KVA inverters for AC power conversion.

He explained that the system was carefully designed based on lessons from previous renewable energy projects in the health sector and has already undergone extensive test-running with NIMR engineers.

“This is the most sophisticated solar facility we have deployed in the health sector. It is designed not only to provide stable power but also to reduce the institute’s energy costs so that more resources can be redirected into research and quality healthcare,” he added.

Representing the Minister of State for Health, Dr. Isiaq Adekunle Salako, the Director-General of NIMR commended ECEWS for their continued support to Nigeria’s health and research sector.

L-R: Director of Admin, NIMR Mr. Bitrus Nelson; Director, Heartland Alliance,  Dr. Uloma Nwogu; DG, NIMR Prof. Oladapo Obafunwa; CEO, ECEWS, Dr. Andy Eyo and Chief Health Officer, ECEWS  Dr. Okezie Onyedinachi at the event.                            _{Photo: NIMR/AMAKA}    

He noted that investments in renewable energy within health and research institutions are critical for efficiency, cost-effectiveness and service continuity.

“The deployment of renewable energy solutions such as this solar system aligns with the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening health systems while embracing sustainable development,” he said.

Professor Obafunwa also recalled that the institute’s electricity bill shortly after he assumed office in August 2024 exceeded N48 million monthly and later rose to between N49 million and N52 million despite modest government subvention.

He explained that NIMR management had introduced several measures to reduce electricity consumption, including the installation of prepaid meters and stricter energy management practices.

The NIMR DG expressed appreciation to ECEWS and its partners for the intervention and urged members of staff to continue using electricity prudently.

The solar power system currently supports three critical facilities within the institute, including the COBAS building complex for viral testing, HIV and tuberculosis specimen analysis and diagnostic result generation, as well as the Biobank facility where sensitive biological samples are preserved under ultra-low temperature conditions.

NIMR said the intervention would strengthen the institute’s capacity to sustain critical research activities, improve diagnostic services and contribute to Nigeria’s broader climate and renewable energy goals.