This is not Sterling Bank's first foray into the renewable energy area. They completely covered their headquarters with solar panels a few years ago.
naptu2: Oh yeah! That post about the diagram is linked (by a building) to another pending post.
There are always alternatives, choices and options in everything and the government needs to allow Nigerians to have choices, alternatives and options in everything. Free and fair competition usually drives down prices.
Remember that there was a time that regular crude oil was cheap, then it became expensive and the fact that it was expensive made mining of shale oil profitable and then the Saudis had to over supply the market in order to wipe out the shale producers. (Just think of what Globacom did in 2003).
There are also many alternatives in the electricity sector. We can create a 4th tier in the electricity market (retailing) that will encourage competition (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electricity_retailing). We can encourage generation companies to conduct RD into other sources of electricity (yeah, I know that we have an advantage in gas, but there's no harm in trying to improve what we have). We can. . .no, we need to further explore the willing buyer, willing seller option (eg Magodo GRA) as a means of raising funds. And we can also explore off grid options, like the one below.
Now, my second pending posts is about how Lagos has changed.
If someone had come to you in 1983 and told you that Gerard Road in Ikoyi would be a dual carriageway that was plagued with high volume of traffic in the mornings and evenings, you would have said that the person was mad, but that's the situation right now.
I can no longer recognise any of the places on Alexander Avenue and Gerard Road that I used to go to everyday between 1983 and 1985. It's like the present Gerard Road came from another planet.
I knew Ikoyi like the back of my hand in the 1980s, but now almost everything is different.
I remember when we were driving down that Bourdillon-Alexander-Gerard stretch in 2010 and we almost got lost! Everything is different
I haven't really been to Yaba in a while, but something tells me that Yaba is about to be the same. I'm not even going to risk driving in that area. I'm sure that I won't know where to go because of the new rules, flyovers and diversions (because of the rail projects).
And this. This phenomenon is also gradually affecting Marina. They basically remodelled Kontagora House (I spent long periods of the 1980s monitoring the construction of that building) but I can barely recognise it now.
I also watched as NAL Merchant Bank's headquarters was being built at Marina in the 1980s. I know exactly how that building looked, but it's totally different now. They have covered the entire building with solar panels. They are going off grid and they are going to generate their own electricity from the sun.
Pictures 1 and 2) This is what the building previously looked like (it had big blue letters that spelled NAL in the 1980s).
Remember Mustapha Gajibo, the guy that runs commercial electric vehicle service in Maiduguri?
Qore by Sterling Bank + Phoenix Renewables by Mustapha Gajibo.
Mustapha Gajibo started out by installing electric motors on minibuses (korope) and thereby converting them to electric vehicles. He has a large solar panel farm that powers his charging stations. He rents out buses to drivers in Maiduguri and they run commercial bus services in the city. Drivers and passengers prefer the electric buses because they are cheaper, quieter and as one passenger said, the drivers don't waste their time by queuing at petrol stations.
He also revealed (in a Deutchewelle interview some years ago) that he is building his own electric vehicle, the Kaande. He has now completed a few units of the Kaande.
Sterling Bank hired Mustapha Gajibo to build a solar-powered charging station on Victoria Island. They have now helped him to bring some units of the Kaande to Lagos.
Watch the video.
The KAANDE rocking the streets of Lagos,QORE by Sterling Bank in partnership with Phoenix Renewables Ltd. pic.twitter.com/AR5tE5S4Q6
— Mustapha A. Gajibo (@mustapha_gajibo) July 4, 2023
Qore by Sterling Bank is also considering bringing in foreign made electric vehicles and assembling them in Nigeria. They are also building battery swapping stations and helping people convert their old petrol powered vehicles to electric vehicles.
Sterling Bank’s Qore Sparks Nigerian EV Revolution To Life
LAGOS – Sterling Bank has changed the course of Nigeria’s energy and transportation sectors with the launch of Qore; its suite of renewable energy-powered transportation solutions.
Qore will offer the purchase and financing of electric vehicles (EVs), EV charging stations, conversion of fossil-fuel-powered engines to EV engines, battery swapping services for modular EVs, and more.
Abubakar Suleiman, CEO of Sterling Bank, while speaking at the launch of Nigeria’s first publicly available EV charging station in Lagos, said that the launch of Qore is a significant milestone in the bank’s journey towards powering Nigeria’s transportation sector with renewable energy.
According to Suleiman, “Qore will revolutionise the very idea of how we power movement by providing clean, sustainable and cost-effective options for individuals and businesses, while impacting positively on the sector’s environmental footprint.“
Olabanjo Alimi, Group Head for Renewable Energy and Transportation at Sterling, also speaking at the launch, further explained that Qore focuses on improving mobility services in Nigeria by providing affordable and cleaner transportation alternatives to petrol and diesel powered vehicles.
He described Qore as a “mobility project” that will offer a range of products, including the manufacture and sale of EVs, financing for the purchase and distribution of EVs, and mobility-as-a-service options to cater to first-and last-mile transportation.
Alimi said: “Qore will deliver innovative solutions through partnerships that provide sustainable energy options for vehicles through stations such as this. This will accelerate the adoption of clean mobility solutions that allow interested customers to buy EVs directly, or even convert their existing petrol- or diesel-powered vehicles to run on electricity.”
“Along with the readily available technology to convert petrol or diesel powered vehicles, Qore will drive EV adoption in the Nigerian market by providing charging infrastructure and battery swapping services to quicken the turnaround time of restoring power to EVs.”
He continued by saying that Qore had pioneered, along with the first publicly available charging station in the country, a proprietary payment solution that will allow for direct interaction with the battery management system of vehicles that charge up at the station.
The Group Head concluded by highlighting that this is a watershed moment for the Nigerian EV market, emphasizing Qore’s openness to partnerships and collaborations to increase the creation of EV infrastructure and adoption in the country.
The adoption of Qore’s suite of solutions is already increasing with the acquisition of 100 electric tricycles to power transportation in the Kano metropolis, as well as the conversion of diesel-engine ferries to electric power to improve the commute of individuals and businesses on Lagos’ waterways.
The newly launched charging station adds another layer to the robust offerings.
Sterling has set itself apart as the first corporate organisation on the African continent to fully power up its offices with a renewable energy source by installing over 3000 Building Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) panels, generating 1 megawatt (1 MW) of electricity.
This move will make the structure one of the largest on the continent, primarily powered by renewable energy, demonstrating the bank’s commitment to the growth and development of renewable energy in Nigeria.
Furthermore, the bank recently launched Imperium; an alternative energy solution, to power Nigerian homes and businesses through solar and renewable energy services tailored specifically for Nigeria’s peculiar energy needs.
Renowned for its now famous HEART of Sterling strategy; which focuses major investments in the Health, Education, Agriculture, Renewable Energy and Transportation sectors of the Nigerian economy, its irreverent brand voice and enviable talent management practices, the bank recently completed a major milestone towards the completion of its transformation into a financial holdings company with the relisting of its shares on the floor of the Nigerian Exchange (NGX).
The bank has maintained and increased momentum in 2023 with her citation as Africa’s Most Valuable Commercial Bank Brand for 2023 by the African Brand Magazine , in a poll conducted by GeoPoll and Kantar; two of the world’s leading brand research firms, a top three employer in Nigeria by LinkedIn in the social network’s annual Top 25 List, and most recently, one of the top 100 fastest growing companies in Africa by the prestigious Financial Times.
FG inaugurates solar-powered electric vehicle charging station in Enugu
By Lawrence Njoku (Enugu) 19 August 2023 | 3:07 am
The Federal Government has inaugurated a solar-powered electric vehicle charging station at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) as part of efforts to reduce the use of fossil fuel vehicles that pollute the environment and contribute to global warming.
Speaking at the event, yesterday, the Director General, National Automative Design and Development Council (NADDC), Mr. Jelani Aliyu, stated that the idea was to deepen technological advancement in Nigeria’s automotive industry.
He stated that with the effects of global warming and climate change on the environment, many countries are now moving away from fossil fuel vehicles to electric vehicles
“This informs the reason the NADDC, an agency in the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, is sponsored by the government to build electric vehicle charging stations powered by solar across the country.
“The aim is to ensure zero per cent carbon emission in our environment as well as reduce health problems associated with it,” he said.
Represented by the Director, Infrastructure in the Council, Olarawaju Omusanya, he explained that Usman Danfodo University, Sokoto, University of Lagos and UNN were three universities selected for the pilot project of solar powered charging electric vehicle stations.
“The Usman Danfodo University, Sokoto and University of Lagos were inaugurated in 2021. NADDC encourages universities in the country to utilise this opportunity by stimulating further research and development of this project,” he said.
The DG added that the council would continue to promote advanced technology transfer and development of human capital.
He commended the Vice-Chancellor of UNN, Prof. Charles Igwe, and the management for the maximum cooperation to see that the project was completed and inaugurated.
In his remarks, Igwe expressed appreciation to NADDC for choosing UNN as one of the pilot universities for the project.
He promised that the university would continue to do its best, urging the institution’s Faculty of Engineering to ensure the conversion of vehicles in the university to electric vehicles.
The UNN Coordinator of the project, Prof. Ozomena Ani, commended the vice chancellor for approving the project as well as allowing him to coordinate the project in the university.
Ani, an engineer and lecturer in the Faculty of Engineering, said his research team would ensure the maintenance of the project.
Earlier, the Dean, Faculty of Engineering, Prof. Emenike Ejiogu, who was represented by Associate Professor, Sunday Ezeoha, said the faculty would continue to provide the required manpower in engineering.
ivandragon: What is happening in those areas that we don't already know?
Is the cost of recharging the vehicles going to be truly affordable?
What happens when CNG also starts getting smuggled out of the country?
How affordable are diesel & PMS for the masses at this time?
It is easy to spew out ideas as policies, but if there is no proper planning, implementation & most importantly, fixing the root causes that have led to the NEED for these alternatives, then nothing much will change...
That simply means that you have not read the threads
You are asking about cost of charging, how are commercial drivers charging their electric vehicles in Borno (Oh, you didn't know that there were commercial electric vehicle services in Borno, right? ) how are they doing it in Kano??
It seems like you are not interested in learning. It doesn't take much to click and read what is actually happening (not policy pronouncements, but actions that are being taken by private sector and others).
I don't have time for posturing and that's clearly what you want to do.
Have a great day (I am not going to read your posts again).
Here are the threads again in case you are interested in learning.
ivandragon: On the surface, this looks good. But does it really address the root problem(s)?
CNG is cheaper now because there is no high demand. What happens when every one switches to CNG, including the neighbouring countries that the FG said made subsidy on pms unsustainable?
What happens when those countries start smuggling the 'cheaper' alternative?
What now happens when CNG prices start rising to meet up with PMS levels?
Tinubu approves establishment of Presidential CNG Initiative
The initiative will revolutionise the transportation landscape in the country, targeting over 11,500 new CNG-enabled vehicles and 55,000 CNG conversion kits for PMS-dependent vehicles.
By Mary Izuaka August 18, 2023
President Bola Tinubu has approved the establishment of the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGI).
The Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, in a statement on Friday, said the establishment of the initiative was in furtherance of his commitment to easing the impact of fuel subsidy removal on Nigerians by reducing energy costs.
This transformative initiative, according to Mr Ngelale, is poised to revolutionise the transportation landscape in the country, targeting over 11,500 new Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-enabled vehicles and 55,000 CNG conversion kits for existing Premium Motor Spirit (PMS)-dependent vehicles.
“While simultaneously bolstering in-country manufacturing, local assembly and expansive job creation in line with the presidential directive.
“The landmark initiative, which comprises of a Comprehensive Adoption Strategy, will include the following: Empowering Workshops Programme w/ Nationwide Network of Workshops, Local Assembly and Job Creation as key points of emphasis with an initial focus on mass transit systems and student hubs in order to significantly reduce transit costs for the general populace in the immediate term,” he said.
Furthermore, he said in line with the PCNGI’s determination to ensure seamless integration of CNG utility within the current midstream and downstream energy value chain to support its sustainability, the PCNGI would facilitate the provision of workshops across all geopolitical zones and states with essential kits and comprehensive training for newly employed staff, thus creating new opportunities for technical skill development and employment for Nigerians.
He explained that the new nationwide network of workshops, to be established through the initiative, would ensure widespread access and demand side utilisation of CNG technology and CNG-related expertise, thereby facilitating smoother transitions for vehicle owners for the wider benefit of the Nigerian economy.
Under the aegis of the PCNGI, Mr Ngelale said certain strategic objectives will be achieved.
He listed the objectives to include “the development of new stakeholder-operated Intrastate Mass Transit systems built on CNG, Support for states to onboard new CNG buses as part of their Intrastate Mass Transit network (wholesale conversion, retro-fitting and new purchase); and deployment of CNG buses through existing Private Mass Transit operators, including new financing programmes for operators through an innovative asset finance programme.
The programme will also incentivise investors to invest in CNG processing, distribution and utilisation by providing incentives for enhanced investment and partnership and delivering training and technology transfer to support the After-Sales Services and maintenance sub-industry to create sustainable jobs.
The statement said President Tinubu’s focus on assembling CNG-enabled vehicles within the country would stimulate economic growth, create employment opportunities, and bolster the nation’s automotive manufacturing capabilities.
“The launch of this initiative also underscores this administration’s commitment to fostering a cleaner environment by reducing carbon emissions and promoting energy security through domestic natural gas resources,” he said.
Earlier in August, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) announced it is partnering with NIPCO Gas Limited to develop Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) stations in the country.
Mele Kyari, the NNPCL group chief executive officer, disclosed this at a press briefing in Abuja.
According to the NNPCL, the partnership is part of the company’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and providing cheaper alternative fuel to motorists in the country.
“As part of the NNPCL commitment to reducing carbon footprint and providing cheaper alternative fuel to motorists, the company is happy to announce a strategic partnership with NIPCO Gas Limited to develop Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) stations,” Mr Kyari said.
PRESIDENT BOLA TINUBU APPROVES ESTABLISHMENT OF THE PRESIDENTIAL CNG INITIATIVE; TARGETS NATIONWIDE ADOPTION WITH WORKSHOPS FOR SMOOTH TRANSITION TO CNG-FUELLED VEHICLES
In furtherance of his commitment to easing the impact of fuel subsidy removal on Nigerians by reducing energy costs, President Bola Tinubu has approved the establishment of the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGI).
This transformative initiative is poised to revolutionize the transportation landscape in the country, targeting over 11,500 new CNG-enabled vehicles and 55,000 CNG conversion kits for existing PMS-dependent vehicles, while simultaneously bolstering in-country manufacturing, local assembly and expansive job creation in line with the presidential directive.
The landmark initiative, which comprises of a Comprehensive Adoption Strategy, will include the following: Empowering Workshops Programme w/ Nationwide Network of Workshops, Local Assembly and Job Creation as key points of emphasis with an initial focus on mass transit systems and student hubs in order to significantly reduce transit costs for the general populace in the immediate term.
Furthermore, in line with the PCNGI's determination to ensure a seamless integration of CNG utility within the current midstream and downstream energy value chain to support its sustainability, the PCNGI will facilitate the provision of workshops across all geopolitical zones and states with essential kits and comprehensive training for newly employed staff, thus creating new opportunities for technical skill development and employment for Nigerians.
The new nationwide network of workshops, to be established through the initiative, would ensure widespread access and demand side utilization of CNG technology and CNG-related expertise, thereby facilitating smoother transitions for vehicle owners at the wider benefit of the Nigerian economy.
Under the aegis of the PCNGI, the following strategic objectives will be achieved:
— The development of new stakeholder-operated Intrastate Mass Transit systems built on CNG.
— Support for states to onboard new CNG buses as part of their Intrastate Mass Transit network (wholesale conversion, retro-fitting and new purchase).
— The deployment of CNG buses through existing Private Mass Transit operators, including new financing programmes for operators through an innovative asset finance programme.
— Incentivize investors to invest in CNG processing, distribution and utilization by providing incentives for enhanced investment and partnership.
— Deliver training and technology transfer to support the After-Sales Services and maintenance sub-industry to create sustainable jobs.
President Tinubu's focus on assembling CNG-enabled vehicles within the country will stimulate economic growth, create employment opportunities, and bolster the nation's automotive manufacturing capabilities.
The launch of this initiative also underscores this administration’s commitment to fostering a cleaner environment by reducing carbon emissions and promoting energy security through the utilization of domestic natural gas resources.
Ajuri Ngelale Special Adviser to the President (Media & Publicity) August 18, 2023
Car Talk › Re: FG Inaugurates Solar-Powered Electric Vehicle Charging Station In Enugu by naptu2(op): 10:38am On Aug 19, 2023
