By Abubakar Yunusa
Olam Agri and Husk Power Systems have unveiled a major commercial and industrial (C&I) solar energy project aimed at revolutionising agricultural energy use in Nigeria’s rice-producing belt.
The initiative marks a strategic push towards reducing dependence on costly and polluting diesel generators, while boosting sustainability in the sector.
The new project, located in Rukubi, Nasarawa State, will see the deployment of a 1.3 megawatt-peak (MWp) solar photovoltaic (PV) system, complemented by an 860 kilowatt-hour battery energy storage system (BESS).
Under a 10-year power purchase agreement (PPA), Husk will supply clean electricity to Olam Agri’s rice operations.
Speaking on the collaboration, Anil Nair, Country Head of Olam Agri in Nigeria, underscored the company’s commitment to sustainable development.
“Sustainability is at the heart of Olam Agri’s operations,” Nair said.
“This partnership with Husk Power is a significant step towards reducing our carbon footprint, while ensuring a stable and cost-effective energy supply.”
Nair added that the transition to solar power would improve operational efficiency and advance Nigeria’s renewable energy goals.
“By implementing renewable solutions, we’re not only meeting our own energy needs but also setting a precedent for others across the agricultural sector in Africa and beyond,” he said.
The initiative is bolstered by favourable government policies aimed at encouraging private-sector investment in clean energy and fostering solar adoption within industrial and agricultural landscapes.
Husk Power’s Country Director, Olu Aruike, lauded the strategic alliance, describing it as a vital part of Husk’s long-term vision.
“As the market leader in Nigeria’s community solar mini-grid sector, we are committed to supporting C&I businesses in decarbonising the economy,” Aruike said.
“Our partnership with Olam Agri is a step towards deploying hundreds of megawatts of solar capacity across Sub-Saharan Africa in the coming years.”
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