FG unveils hybrid electric vehicle charging station in Abuja

The Federal Government of Nigeria has taken a significant step toward sustainable energy and climate action with the commissioning of a hybrid electric vehicle (EV) charging station in the nation’s capital, Abuja. 

The event which took place on Thursday, was spearheaded by the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), under the leadership of Director General and CEO of the ECN, Dr Mustapha Abdullahi. It was also graced by the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, alongside other senior government officials.

The state-of-the-art facility, a collaborative effort between the Electric Motor Vehicle Company (EMVC) and the ECN, represents a pioneering move in Nigeria’s push for clean energy adoption and a low-carbon economy. Designed as a 5.5-kilowatt solar-powered charging station, the facility is equipped with cutting-edge technology to ensure efficiency, reliability, and sustainability. 

It features a 10-kilowatt lithium battery and an 8kVA intelligent inverter, enabling it to operate seamlessly using solar energy or switch to the public power grid when necessary. This hybrid design ensures uninterrupted service and adaptability to varying energy demands.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Dr Abdullahi emphasised the station’s role in advancing Nigeria’s environmental goals.

“This project is an electric vehicle-charging station designed for sustainable running, to stand the test of time,” he said. “It aligns with the presidential declaration on climate change and the Nigerian clean energy policy, which aim to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. By leveraging solar energy, we are transitioning toward a low-carbon economy and reducing our dependence on fossil fuels, particularly in the transport sector.”

Fast charging at the core of the hybrid electric vehicle charging station

The facility boasts fast-charging capabilities, a critical feature for promoting widespread EV adoption. According to Abdullahi, a typical electric vehicle can achieve a full charge in approximately 30 minutes, a significant improvement over conventional charging times. Furthermore, the station is designed to charge up to four vehicles simultaneously, accommodating both compatible EV models and generic products. This versatility enhances its utility and accessibility, catering to a broad range of electric vehicle users in the capital.

The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, lauded the initiative as a testament to the government’s commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship. He highlighted the collaboration between the ECN and EMVC as a model for public-private partnerships in driving technological advancements.

“This charging station is not just infrastructure; it is a symbol of Nigeria’s readiness to embrace the future of transportation and energy,” Nnaji noted.

The commissioning comes at a crucial moment as Nigeria intensifies efforts to meet its climate commitments under international frameworks like the Paris Agreement. The transport sector, a major contributor to the country’s carbon emissions due to its reliance on petrol and diesel-powered vehicles, is a key target for decarbonisation. The introduction of this solar-powered EV charging station signals a shift toward cleaner alternatives, supporting the government’s broader vision of sustainable development and energy diversification.

However, as with any emerging technology, its success will depend on scalability, public awareness, and the expansion of EV infrastructure beyond Abuja. While the station’s capacity to charge four vehicles concurrently is a strong start, experts suggest that wider adoption will require additional investment in charging networks, incentives for EV ownership, and policies to encourage renewable energy use.

The facility’s reliance on a 5.5-kilowatt solar power system and the integration of a 10-kilowatt lithium battery further ensure energy storage for use during low sunlight periods, enhancing operational efficiency. The 8kVA intelligent inverter optimises power conversion, making the system both robust and cost-effective.

Dr Abdullahi also hinted at plans to replicate this model in other parts of Nigeria, aligning with the government’s clean energy roadmap.

“This is just the beginning. We envision a network of EV charging stations nationwide, supporting the growth of electric mobility and contributing to a greener future,” he added.

This development marks a milestone in Nigeria’s journey toward net-zero emissions, offering a glimpse into a future where clean energy powers the country’s transport system.