Managing Director, Paras Energy,Mr Yashwanth Kumar (Middle in black suit) with dignitaries and guests during the commissioning of the hybrid solar project at UMZA Rice Mills in Kano recently
Paras Energy, Empower New Energy and Huawei has commissioned a hybrid new solar and battery installation at UMZA Rice Mill in Kano, Nigeria.
The rooftop 1 MWp solar and 2 MWh battery installation provides reliable power supply while at the same time significantly reducing UMZAs energy costs and improving the operational performance.
With this pioneering milestone, Paras Energy, Empower New Energy and partners have created a platform that will bring affordable solar power to dozens of local energy-hungry businesses in the Kano region.
During the commissioning,the Managing Director Paras Energy,Yashwanth Kumar said: “At Paras Energy, we are dedicated to pioneering sustainable energy solutions that drive progress and preserve our planet. The innovation and installation at UMZA will make a positive impact on the economy, environment and society, enabling UMZA to not only achieve cost savings but also enhance operational efficiency.”
CEO Empower New Energy,Terje Osmundsen said the partnership marks a significant first step in the company’s mission to provide sustainable energy solutions in the economically important Kano region in Nigeria.
“By empowering UMZA Rice Mill with solar energy, we are not only enhancing their operations but also contributing to the economic resilience of the local region.
“This first solar and battery investment in Kano is not only important for UMZA but will also result in wider economic and socially benefits for Nigeria’s second largest industrial hub.”Osmundsen said.
The Director, Digital Power Huawei Nigeria,Mr Quan Green said the solar project demonstrates how integrated battery and solar solutions improve energy reliability, reduce costs and support sustainability at the same time, says name.
Hosted by the Chairman Umza Group of Industries and Rice Processors Association of Nigeria (RIPAN) Alhaji Abubakar Maifata,more than 30 local business leaders as well as representatives of Norwegian Embassy, the Kano Electricity Company (KEDCO) visited UMZA to learn about the solar success story.
” We are very satisfied with the operations of the solar and battery plant We hope this pioneering initiative will stimulate many businesses in Kano to go solar.” Maifata said.
The installation was completed less than a year after the signing of the 10-year contract between Empower New Energy and UMZA to develop, finance, construct and operate the hybrid solar and battery plant. The Nigerian company Paras Energy is responsible for engineering, design, construction and operations of the plant and Huawei is supplying advanced PV and battery technologies.
Before it got solar energy UMZA suffered from several hours of power outage per day combined with fluctuations in frequency and voltage levels that damaged operations and resulted in high costs of diesel back-up power. These problems are now solved, thanks to the seamless integration of energy from mainly solar panels, batteries and grid power.
UMZA plays an important role in the Kano region, serving as a leading producer of commercial-scale rice cultivation and processing of rice and by-products. As the demand for rice continues to rise, a reliable and sustainable energy source is critical, enabling the mill to maximize productivity and ensure efficient processing to meet consumer needs.
With this investment, UMZA creates vital employment opportunities for residents in the Kano region, which in turn contributes to the local economy and improves livelihoods.
