Outage: Lagos Pushes Clean, Renewable, Sustainable Energy For Agencies

Amid constant electricity outages nationwide, the Lagos State government has stressed the need to aggressively develop and promote the use of clean, renewable and sustainable energy by installing solar power systems in its facilities.

In his address at the unveiling of the 150 KVA Outdoor Solar System for Radio Lagos and Eko FM, the state’s commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr Gbenga Omotoso, said the need for an adequate, sustainable electricity supply informed the installation of the solar system at the radio station.

Omotoso, flanked by the state’s commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Mr Abiodun Ogunleye and the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and Strategy, Mr Lanre Bajulaiye, said, “Solar is the way to go; all of the money that we spend on diesel, that we are not getting value, but with solar, all shall be well. I remember when we started complaining about street lights, that we were also in darkness, and I went to do my research, and to also ask the question, what we could do about street lighting, and I discovered that we were spending about N600 to N800 million per month to fuel generators that power the street lights.

“And the government said it didn’t make any sense, and that it was not sustainable, and that in any case, we were not getting the value for the money. And at that point, we started considering how to try solar. I am very happy today that it’s not just that we are seeing that it’s working, we are seeing that it’s a transformation, a total transformation to renewable energy, a total transformation to healthy source of energy, and transformation to a system that is simple, that is safe, and that is secure, that is healthy, and that is progressive.

In his opening address, the general manager of Radio Lagos, Eko FM, Mr Jide Lawal, said the radio stations have been committed to discharging their duties of bringing reliable, quality information, entertainment, and community engagement to listeners round the clock.

‘’But we all know that the challenge of power supply in our country has often tested our resilience. Today, I say with pride and with the immense support of Mr Governor and, by extension, that of the Honourable Commissioners and our Permanent Secretary, that that chapter has changed.

“With the installation of this state-of-the-art solar power system, we are stepping into a new era of energy independence, sustainability, and uninterrupted service to our beloved listeners.

“This solar power project is more than just panels and batteries. It is a bold statement of dedication to innovation, environmental responsibility and excellence in broadcasting.  From this moment, Radio Lagos/Eko FM will be powered by clean, renewable energy, thereby reducing our carbon footprint and lowering operational costs.’’

He commended the Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who, he said, believed in the vision and made it a reality.