Adeleke University, Ede, Osun State, has commissioned a 200-kilowatt peak solar power system for its Senate Building as part of efforts to secure more reliable electricity and reduce its dependence on diesel generators and the national grid.

The commercial and industrial solar installation was delivered by DVS Reliable Energy and is designed to operate independently of the national grid when necessary.

Speaking at the commissioning, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of DVS Reliable Energy, David Adewuyi, said the system would provide stable and sustainable electricity while helping the university reduce the cost of conventional power generation.

Adewuyi said the installation had been tested for seven days without grid electricity and continued to operate effectively, demonstrating its capacity to function as an off-grid power source.

He explained that the solar panels have an expected lifespan of up to 25 years, while the batteries carry a 10-year warranty and the inverters a five-year warranty.

He added that DVS Reliable Energy would provide free maintenance for the system during its first year of operation.

According to Adewuyi, the project represents the beginning of what could eventually become a broader transition to renewable energy across Adeleke University.

He commended the institution’s management for investing in renewable energy, describing the decision as a long-term investment capable of delivering financial and operational benefits.

Representing the university’s chairman, Dr Deji Adeleke, Chief Modupe Sanni Adeleke said access to dependable electricity was essential to the effective running and development of the institution.

She said the rising cost of diesel had made alternative energy sources increasingly important, adding that the university expected the solar investment to reduce its long-term power expenses.

Sanni Adeleke recalled that she initially considered the cost of the project high but became convinced that it was worthwhile after considering the rising price of diesel and the potential savings the system could generate.

She said the decision was also influenced by the experience of institutions that operate successfully with solar power without relying on the national grid.

The university’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof Solomon Ajayi, described the installation as a significant relief for the institution, particularly because of the high cost of diesel, electricity bills and generator maintenance.

Ajayi said the new system would provide clean, quiet and dependable electricity while reducing disruptions associated with conventional power sources.

He expressed appreciation to DVS Reliable Energy and its management for delivering the project and said the university expected further developments in its renewable energy programme.

Also speaking, the Executive Director of Internal Audit, Adeleke University, Dr Bright Nwamadi, expressed satisfaction with the successful testing of the installation.

Nwamadi said the institution expected the system to continue performing effectively and provide value for the investment.

The commissioning marks a major step in Adeleke University’s efforts to expand its use of renewable energy, lower energy-related expenditure and improve the reliability of electricity available for its academic and administrative activities.