As part of its continued efforts to light up the lives of communities through renewable energy resources, Emel Advanced Power Solution (EAPS), a subsidiary of  Emel Group, in partnership with Suntech, the world’s largest manufacturer of solar panels has embarked on a project to make  Ijora, the Solar Capital of Nigeria.

The Emel Group has installed world-class solar solutions around Ijora which are geared towards bringing self-sustainability to the community, improving the environment and creating a more promising future for the people of Ijora.

The Group has set up a solar powered borehole t the Oba of Ijora’s Palace which supplies up to 20,000 litres of fresh water daily as well as powering a fan in the local school and a phone charging centre; solar street lights which provide uninterrupted lighting from dusk till dawn; a solar powered sound system at the local church and mosque; and solar LED lighting at the Ijora hospital.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony of the solar powered borehole in Ijora, Chief Naresh Asnani, Managing Director of the Emel Group said “It is proven that there is a direct correlation between electricity and poverty reduction, educational attainment, health and quality of life. As good neighbours, we believe that it is our responsibility to “light up the lives” of the people of Ijora by providing the vital resources that the community so desperately needs for survival.”

According to Chief Naresh, the initiatives undertaken by Emel reaffirm the Group’s commitment towards Corporate Social Responsibility and Environmental Sustainability.  “This is just the beginning.  Our mission is to “light up Nigeria” with renewable energy and we will continue to dedicate our efforts towards addressing the country’s energy needs at the community, state and national levels.”

Max Jiang, Key Account Manager, APMEA Sales Department, Suntech commented,”The promise of solar power is critically important to solving today’s energy demands in an environmentally sensitive way. Solar energy offers unparalleled potential for developing nations such as Nigeria to boost social welfare, education, and economic development efforts.

Suntech is empowering communities all over the world and, in partnership with Emel; we are equally committed to undertaking transformative projects in this country.”

Mr. Gamany Ojora, a member of the Ijora community present at the inauguration ceremony, xpressed his delight with the new borehole which is making a difference to the lives of

over 200 people in the community, “We now have clean water to drink, cook, bathe and wash our clothes.   People from all around the community come with their buckets to fill water for their families.  The borehole has become a new place for people to meet, chat and laugh together.”

Responding on behalf of the community, His Royal Majesty, the Ojora of Ijora, Oba A. F. O. A. Aromire, commended the Emel Group for its contribution towards the community, “It is with great honour that I support the Emel Group in their endeavour to make Ijora, the Solar Capital of Nigeria.

“I have personally witnessed the successful implementation of various solar applications around our neighbourhood which are enhancing the quality of life of all members of our community. “