University of Embu eyes solar power to cut costs

University of Embu plans to produce its own solar power to save on electricity costs and earn income.

Chancellor Musili Wambua said the institution aims to produce three megawatts of power, which would be more than its internal needs.

Prof Wambua said they already have a committee working on feasibility studies and financing of the project through a partner.

The partner will invest in the solar power system and recover the cost and his profit through monthly repayments for a period of five years, after which the university will take over.

“We pay a monthly power bill of Sh500,000 which is bound to rise to Sh1 million as the university grows in student population. After five years, we will earn income from sale of electricity while saving on power bills,” said Wambua.

Wambua also revealed the university was in the process of entering into public-private partnership to build accommodation facilities and tuition blocks for the increasing student population.

The Chancellor was speaking at the university boardroom yesterday during the signing of a memorandum of understanding with the Standard Group. The deal is meant to promote visibility for the newly chartered university.

The MoU was signed by Prof Wambua and Standard Group Print Operations Managing Director Francis Munywoki.