Empower New Energy, Paras Energy and Huawei have officially inaugurated a hybrid solar PV and battery power system at the UMZA Rice and Oil Mill in Kano, Nigeria.
The new installation is expected to lower UMZA’s energy expenses significantly while improving operational stability and performance.
The project represents a major step forward for distributed clean energy adoption in northern Nigeria. Through this investment, Empower and its partners aim to extend access to dependable and affordable solar power to more businesses across Kano, supporting regional economic growth and job creation.
“This first solar and battery investment in Kano is not only important for UMZA but will also result in wider economic and socially benefits for Nigeria's second largest industrial hub”, commented CEO of Empower New Energy Terje Osmundsen.
Official launch in Kano
The commissioning ceremony was held in Kano, where Empower New Energy joined project partners Paras Energy and Huawei to celebrate the completion of the hybrid solar and battery facility. The event was hosted by UMZA chairman and president of the Kano Rice Mills Organization, Hon. Mohammed Abubakar.
More than 30 business leaders from the region attended, alongside representatives from the Norwegian Embassy and the Kano Electricity Distribution Company (KEDCO), to witness the project and learn more about its impact on industrial energy supply.
Delivering reliable and clean power
The rooftop installation combines 1 MWp of solar PV capacity with a 2.15 MWh battery energy storage system, delivering stable, affordable and environmentally responsible electricity in a region that has historically experienced grid instability.
The project reached completion in under a year following the signing of a 10-year agreement between Empower New Energy and UMZA. Under the agreement, Empower financed, developed and will operate the plant. Paras Energy handled engineering, design, construction and operations, while Huawei supplied the solar PV and battery technology.
Strengthening industrial resilience
UMZA is one of the leading commercial rice producers in the Kano region, playing a critical role in rice cultivation and processing. As demand for rice continues to increase, dependable energy has become essential to maintain high productivity levels and efficient processing operations.
Prior to adopting solar, UMZA faced daily power outages lasting several hours, alongside frequency and voltage fluctuations that disrupted production and increased reliance on costly diesel generators. The new system integrates solar panels, battery storage and grid supply to provide a more stable and cost-effective energy mix.
“We are very satisfied with the operations of the solar and battery plant” said UMZA chairman Hon. Mohammed Abukabar at the event and added “We hope this pioneering initiative will stimulate many businesses in Kano to go solar”.
Beyond operational improvements, the investment is also expected to create employment opportunities and contribute to local economic development in Kano.
Partner perspectives
“At Paras Energy, we are dedicated to pioneering sustainable energy solutions that drive progress and preserve our planet. The innovation and installation at UMZA will make a positive impact on the economy, environment and society, enabling UMZA to not only achieve cost savings but also enhance operational efficiency”, commented Yashwant Kumar, managing director at Paras Energy.
“The solar project demonstrates how integrated battery and solar solutions improve energy reliability, reduce costs and support sustainability at the same time”, says Quan Green, Director for Digital Power, Huawei Nigeria.
“This partnership marks a significant first step in our mission to provide sustainable energy solutions in the economically important Kano region in Nigeria. By empowering UMZA Rice Mill with solar energy, we are not only enhancing their operations but also contributing to the economic resilience of the local region”, says Terje Osmundsen, CEO of Empower New Energy
Kano rice mill goes hybrid solar
The new installation is expected to lower UMZA’s energy expenses significantly while improving operational stability and performance. (Image source: Empower New Energy)
