September 17 2024 0Comment

Pioneering New Energy Frontiers: Solar Maintenance Training for Renewable Energy Success

Following the successful solar training workshop held in August at the School of Science and Technology, Pan Atlantic University in Lagos, with the support of the United Kingdom Research and Innovation, Economic and Social Research Council (UKRI-ESRC), a second solar training workshop was organized in Abuja, Nigeria. The aim of the program was to equip aspiring and incumbent solar installation and maintenance practitioners with the relevant skills necessary to provide technical and community engagement support around solar systems deployment and use.

The intensive three-day training workshop held from Tuesday, September 3rd, to Thursday, September 5th, 2024. The workshop featured a blend of theoretical and practical sessions, ensuring that the necessary fundamental concepts and principles are well blended with hands-on practical experience needed for the effective installation and management of solar systems. The attendees included individuals working in various capacities within the solar energy field—small-scale business owners, on-site installers, and other professionals. A key focus of the training was the introduction of standardized procedures for solar installation and maintenance, encouraging participants to adopt a more methodical and professional approach to their work.

Attendees inspecting solar equipment and panels at the Abuja solar workshop

In addition to technical expertise, the program also addressed topics like scalability and business ethics, emphasizing the importance of a holistic approach to solar energy projects. Dr. Emmanuel Usen, one of the trainers, stressed the critical role that solar practitioners and experts play in ensuring the wider population derives maximum benefits from solar energy. He also underscored the importance of community engagement in determining the success of any solar project.

An especially notable aspect of the training was the discussion on renewable energy, particularly solar power, as a viable solution to Nigeria’s energy challenges. “In the past, installing solar energy systems was considered a luxury, as other energy alternatives were comparatively cheaper. However, given the current circumstances, solar energy now offers a cost-effective solution,” commented Dr. Norbert Edomah, the programme director.

Attendees inspecting solar panels at the Abuja solar workshop

We express our immerse gratitude to some stakeholders that got members of their network to take part in the training, including the Rural Electrification Agency, Renewable Energy Association of Nigeria, among others.

As solar energy technology emerges as a cheaper and more sustainable alternative to traditional energy sources, the machinery needed to drive its growth becomes critical. This makes training programmes like these immensely valuable for practitioners and stakeholders, as they foster the development of expertise necessary to support Nigeria’s transition to a more sustainable energy future.

Author: Norbert Edomah

 

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