By SEBASTINE OBASI

Filling stations in the country would no longer spend so much money on generating sets and diesel to power their pumps, as Nigeria’s first solar-powered filling station has been installed for Total Nigeria Plc.

The 77.8kw roof top project pioneered by Emel Advanced Power Solution Ltd (EAPS), part of the Emel Group, and its partner Applied Solar Technologies (AST) of India, was installed at the newly refurbished Total filling station on Mobolaji Bank- Anthony way, Ikeja, Lagos.

The facility which is now operational is said to be the largest roof top solar system in Africa and the largest solar powered filling station for Total anywhere in Africa and the Middle-East.

Speaking on the project, Mr Alexis Vovk, the Managing Director, Total Nigeria Plc, said, “We are indeed proud to announce that this solar power system provides uninterrupted lighting from dusk to dawn. This will enable our station at Ikeja to provide better and more reliable service to our customers as well as improving operational efficiencies.”

He also said that by harnessing energy from the sun, the filling station expects to lower its electricity costs by at least 25 percent, as well as taking advantage of other benefits such as less dependence on diesel generators, less noise pollution and carbon emissions.

Also speaking, Mr. Roy Chatterjee, Managing Director for Emel Advanced Power Solution Ltd (EAPS) stated that the successful installation of the solar powered system reiterates Emel, AST & Total’s commitment towards environmental sustainability and its focus on renewable energy resources.

He said, “EAPS and its partner AST are committed to being a leader in the industry and we are excited to be on the frontline of the renewable energy movement with this project. Through our partnership with Total & AST, we have set an example as to what can be accomplished when local and multinational companies work in unison.”

He added that EAPS’ goal was to address many of the country’s energy and infrastructural needs at the community, state and national levels. “This new solar powered station is a step away from fossil fuels, and as a nation, that is a path we need to continue to explore. We believe one of the answers to the energy needs of the nation is solar and Nigeria as a country should continue to evolve a variety of alternative energy options,” he said.

Chatterjee called on corporate organisations in the country to partner with EAPS & AST to make Lagos the solar capital of Nigeria, by being a role model and utilizing solar applications for their organisations and funding solar solutions on behalf of their communities.

Mr. Sanjay Deshmukh, President International for Applied Solar Technologies India P Ltd (AST), said “AST will bring all its experience to the country and help its venture with EAPS to grow at a rapid pace. This will go a long way in helping Nigeria harness the immense solar potential, economically.”