TheCable

David Arinze, a renewable energy specialist, says renewable energy engineering should be a standalone course in Nigerian universities.

Solar energy — a renewable energy source — is one of the most viable and sustainable ways of generating clean energy with zero carbon emissions.

Arinze said the renewable energy sector could bring about significant development, mitigate climate change and create jobs.

He added that renewable energy engineering should not be embedded into mechanical or electrical courses in universities.

Arinze told TheCable that renewable energy is the future of Nigeria’s energy needs, hence, efforts should be made to ensure that certified and trained professionals are functioning in the space. 

He emphasised that renewable energy is one way Nigeria can meet its climate and electrification targets.

Arinze said: “Today in Nigeria, I’m yet to see the first university in Nigeria that does renewable energy engineering as a first degree. We have a few that are doing it at a master’s level but if we feel the sector has such a level of importance we should begin to also spend significantly in capacity building. 

“Why is renewable energy embedded in courses like mechanical or electrical engineering and why is it not a branch of study on its own that is given the level of attention that electrical or mechanical engineering is given. Say five years for Nigerian universities minimum to be able to bag a degree in such a course 

“All that will go in impacting the sector, it’s only professionals that would commit and drive the sector. Any sector you see that is doing well today, it’s because year in year out there have been professionals who have upheld the sector and have invested both time, sweat and permit me to use the word blood to ensure that the sector thrives and sees the light of  day.”

Arinze added that renewable energy is “literally our only hope to ensure the earth doesn’t burn”

He called on stakeholders and the government to collaborate and incentivise the sector to make it work effectively.