Radio Lagos addresses power disruptions with 150KVA solar project

A 150KVA outdoor solar power system has been commissioned at Radio Lagos/Eko FM in a joint effort between Alternatio Navitas Ltd and the Lagos State Government. The project aims to improve power supply and support uninterrupted broadcasting at the state-owned media station.

Olajide Lawal, General Manager of Radio Lagos/Eko FM, described the development as a key step in addressing long-standing energy challenges. He said the installation marks “a new era of energy independence, sustainability, and all-encompassing service.”

He noted that the station has faced power constraints over the years, which affected operations. With the new system in place, Lawal said programmes will now run without disruption. “Your favourite programmes will continue without a single second of downtime,” he stated.

Lawal also said the project reflects a broader commitment to renewable energy and reduced reliance on fossil fuels. According to him, the solar installation will help lower operational costs and reduce environmental impact.

Tayo Ogidan, Chief Executive Officer of Alternatio Navitas Ltd, gave an overview of the project and the wider energy situation in Nigeria. He said the country’s power generation remains below demand despite decades of development.

“It is hard to believe that Nigeria has been generating electricity since 1896. We currently push out between 4,000 megawatts and 5,000 megawatts,” he said. He added that the gap between installed capacity and actual output continues to affect homes and businesses.

Ogidan explained that the new solar system includes 720-watt Bifacial solar panels and a hybrid inverter setup designed to provide stable electricity for the facility. He said the project is part of efforts to expand off-grid energy solutions.

“What we decided was to provide solar instead,” he said, noting that decentralised power systems can reduce pressure on the national grid and offer a more reliable supply.

He also raised concerns about the environmental and economic cost of fuel-based generators, which remain common across the country. According to him, millions of such units contribute to pollution and high energy expenses.

Biodun Ogunleye, Lagos State Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, said the government will continue to support similar initiatives. He encouraged staff at the station to receive training on how to use and maintain the new system effectively.

He added that more projects are planned to improve energy access across public facilities in the state.

Gbenga Omotoso, Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Lagos State, said the project reflects a shift towards practical solutions in the energy sector. He acknowledged earlier concerns about sustainability but said the system’s results have shown progress.

“We have seen that it’s working, it’s a transformation,” he said.

Omotoso linked the project to wider global trends in technology and innovation. He said Lagos State will continue to adopt systems that improve efficiency and reduce costs.

The commissioning event brought together government officials, private sector representatives, and managers at Radio Lagos/Eko FM. Speakers at the event emphasised the role of partnerships in addressing infrastructure challenges.