The Federal Government on Monday inaugurated the first phase of the 400KW Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Power Plant at the Yobe State University Teaching Hospital in Damaturu.

The Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, said the project was aimed at boosting healthcare delivery and promoting renewable energy in the country.

Adelabu represented by Alhaji Mamuda Mamman, the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, said the initiative reflects the administration’s determination to ensure energy access becomes a right rather than a privilege, particularly in underserved and remote areas.

“This solar power plant reaffirms our commitment to delivering sustainable and inclusive energy solutions for socioeconomic growth.

“It will ensure that the hospital functions with reliable and clean energy for critical operations like surgeries, equipment usage, and vaccine refrigeration,” Adelabu said.

The minister noted that the project was in alignment with the Electricity Act 2023, which prioritises renewable energy adoption through decentralised systems, solar alternatives for healthcare centres, and private sector incentives such as Feed-in Tariffs.

“Today we commission the 400KW Phase I of this project.

“We remain committed to scaling this to 1MW and replicating similar interventions across the country.

“Our goal is to power hospitals, schools and critical infrastructure with clean, reliable energy,” the minister added.

Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni, commended the federal government for the intervention.

Buni, represented by his deputy, Alhaji Idi Gubana, said the project will significantly enhance service delivery and reduce operational costs at the hospital.

“The Yobe State University Teaching Hospital has expanded from a 250-bed to a 750-bed facility, and this solar power plant supports our efforts to provide uninterrupted energy for modern equipment and services,” he said.