Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has unveiled plans to launch a 500-megawatt solar project, leveraging highly concentrated sun energy in the state.
This was revealed during the commissioning of the first phase of the 11-megawatt Ibadan Hybrid Power (IBHP) at the Power House, Secretariat, Ibadan.
The governor expressed his commitment to transforming the highly concentrated sun energy in Igbojaye, Itesiwaju Local Government Area, into an international solar energy project hub.
He said the initiative is part of his administration’s efforts to address the energy deficit in Oyo State by creating a conducive environment for power investors.
In his remarks the state Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Seun Ashamu, described the initiative as a reflection of Governor Makinde’s vision for energy self-sufficiency in the state.
The 5MW integrated power plant, which comprises 1MW solar power and 4MW natural gas, will provide electricity to the Secretariat, 12 healthcare facilities, a sports complex, judicial complexes, and selected schools.
The event was attended by Deputy Governor, former Deputy Governors, Senator Monsurat Sunmonu, Speaker Oyo State House of Assembly,House of Assembly Committee Chairman on Energy, Hon Oladeji Oparinde, top government functionaries, traditional rulers, religious leaders among others.