MMUST Launches First Phase of Solar Project

MMUST launched the first phase of the Solar Power Project on 3^rd June 2023. This is an important milestone towards the vision of the University transitioning to a Green Circular Economy. The launching was graced by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo, and accompanied by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Planning Research and Innovation), Prof. Charles Mutai. The contractor implementing the project is Gizaa Power Solutions led by the Director, Eng. Edwin Ongeri.

The Vice-Chancellor noted that the University is committed to promoting the Green Circular Economy. “Solar energy is cost-effective and will help in mitigating climate change. This is critical to protecting humans, wildlife, and the ecosystems,” said Prof. Shibairo.

This project is steered by a committee chaired by Dr. James Owuor who was appointed to oversee the implementation of solar power projects at the University. The other committee members present during the launching ceremony were, Dr. Edwin Kanda, Dr. Peter Cherop, CPA Patrick Kivale, Mr. Enoch Odondi, and Mr. Wilberforce Otini. The launching was also attended by the Deputy Principal TVET, Dr. Samuel Waweru.

This phase of the project will supply solar power to the ABA building and the Library. The project will have a mini solar farm mounted on top of car-ports that will be located in the parking area between the ABA building and the library. 

The system is a hybrid grid-tied system designed in such a way that there will be minimal importation of KPLC utility power for the two buildings and minimal usage of the standby generators which are very expensive to run. It will also manage the frequent power interruptions experienced in the two buildings. This will drastically reduce power bills for the two buildings.