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Justrite Superstore launches it first of its kind solar PV + Battery energy storage system (BESS)

In a groundbreaking partnership with Empower New Energy, Powercell Limited, and Huawei, Justrite Superstores proudly announces the commissioning of an innovative rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) plant and battery energy storage system (BESS). This pioneering project represents a significant investment of $6.5 million, fully financed by Empower New Energy.

The official inauguration ceremony was graced by His Excellency Mr. Svein Bæra, the Norwegian Ambassador to Nigeria, alongside Dr. Joseph Onoja, Director General of the Nigerian Conservation Foundation, represented by Mr. Ayodele Alamu. Distinguished guests from the Lagos state government and the private sector were also in attendance.

 

The commissioned systems include solar PV and battery storage at two of Justrite’s retail locations in Lagos State: Abule Egba and Ikorodu. The Abule Egba site features a 270 kWp solar installation paired with a 600 kWh battery system, while the Ikorodu site boasts a 400 kWp solar array and an 800 kWh battery storage system. Both installations utilize ComAp’s smart energy management technologies for seamless integration and operation with other power sources.

These installations are part of a larger ongoing project to equip ten Justrite Superstore branches across Lagos, Ogun, and Oyo states with similar systems. The entire project will encompass a total capacity of 3,050 kWp of solar PV and 6,000 kWh of battery storage, creating approximately 400 jobs. The solarisation of all ten Superstores is scheduled for completion by the end of July this year.

Once operational, the installed systems will generate approximately 5.3 GWh of clean electricity annually, meeting up to 85% of the energy needs for the ten Justrite Superstore branches. This transition to renewable energy will reduce Justrite’s carbon emissions by about 2,453 tonnes annually, totaling approximately 61,347 tonnes over the system’s lifetime. This initiative supports Nigeria’s commitment under the Paris Agreement to achieve a 47% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030, addressing the fact that energy production accounts for 60% of Nigeria’s greenhouse gas emissions.

Dr. Ayodele Aderinwale, Chairman of Justrite Limited, emphasized the strategic decision to switch to solar power: “Rising electricity costs and unreliable grid power, coupled with soaring diesel prices, have greatly impacted our business. This transition to solar power and battery storage marks a new chapter for Justrite, setting an example for others in the industry to follow for their benefit and Nigeria’s sustainable growth.”

Terje Osmundsen, CEO of Empower New Energy, expressed his enthusiasm: “We are thrilled to work with the visionary Justrite Superstores to bring Africa’s first solar + battery plant of this scale for a retail business to life. This project, completed in less than eight months, demonstrates the powerful role decentralized solar investments can play in achieving sustainability targets in Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa.”

His Excellency Mr. Svein Bæra, the Norwegian Ambassador to Nigeria, highlighted the broader implications: “Renewable energy is a win for business, the environment, and climate. This project strengthens the partnership between our nations and showcases the potential for foreign investments in Nigeria’s economic and energy transition.”

Jie Lu, Huawei Nigeria CEO & Chairman, commented on the technological advancements: “Huawei Digital Power is proud to help Justrite build the first green supermarket in Nigeria and West Africa. Our high-quality, reliable, and secure smart PV and energy storage system solutions will significantly reduce fuel costs and enhance the stability and safety of electricity production for many companies in Nigeria.”

Through this pioneering solar and battery initiative, Justrite Superstores is leading the way in Nigeria’s energy transition, significantly reducing reliance on diesel generators and promoting sustainable business practices in the commercial and industrial sectors.

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