By Josephine Nwachukwu
The University College Hospital, UCH, Ibadan, has outlined a three-pronged approach in addressing its power crisis, with short-term, medium-term, and long-term strategies aimed at achieving energy stability.
To ensure immediate relief, UCH is increasing modular solar/inverter power coverage in critical units, including the Intensive Care Unit, ICU, operating theatres, accident and emergency unit, outpatient clinics, and wards.
A prioritized plan for power distribution and generator use is being set for laboratory, imaging, and clinical services.
Efforts are also underway to enhance energy efficiency through audits to eliminate wastage, installation of energy-efficient appliances, and ongoing engagement with the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company, IBEDC, the hospital is also working on securing an agreement with an alternative energy provider, including the Oyo State Power Plant.
Medium-term plan: 6 months – 2 years
UCH plans to expand its solar power infrastructure to support essential services. Electrical infrastructure upgrades, including transformers, wiring, and circuit breakers, will enhance efficiency, while an automated power management system will optimize electricity usage.
The hospital is also seeking funding from grants, private-sector partnerships, and government support for renewable energy projects.
Long-term plans: 2–5 years and beyond
A solar power system with battery storage will meet the hospital’s energy needs. UCH is advocating for government policies supporting reliable and affordable electricity in healthcare facilities and has engaged a power consultant for expert guidance. Upgrading inverter capacity is a priority to improve hospital service delivery.
Federal Government and IBEDC interventions
The Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu has outlined a four-point agenda for restoring power to UCH. Electricity supply to clinical areas will resume within 24 to 48 hours. The College of Medicine and commercial entities within the hospital will handle their own reconnection arrangements with IBEDC.
UCH has committed to paying its ₦283 million outstanding electricity bill in instalments over the next nine to twelve months while keeping up with current payments. The federal government is also working on a 50MW mini grid under the Rural Electrification Agency, REA, project, scheduled for the third or fourth quarter of 2025, to serve the University of Ibadan and UCH.
Urgent infrastructure needs
UCH has identified essential electrical upgrades necessary for long-term energy stability. These include replacing old underground HT armoured cables, obsolete 11KV and 415V distribution panels, and purchasing seven 3-way Ring Mains Units.
A 5MVA and a proposed 7.5MVA 33KV transformer will improve power distribution efficiency.
The electricity bill for the College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, remains a separate financial burden that requires resolution.
UCH management continues to work around the clock to ensure a reliable power supply for critical healthcare services while engaging stakeholders and securing long-term solutions.
“UCH Is not in darkness”
Providing additional clarity, the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammed Ali Pate stated that UCH has already implemented alternative power solutions, ensuring that key services remain operational. He confirmed that many hospital wards now use solar power, with diesel as a backup for operating theatres to ensure surgeries and critical treatments proceed.
“It is not as if the hospital is in darkness. The Chief Medical Director, CMD, has developed a backup strategy to negotiate with IBEDC for debt repayment and reconnection,” he said on Channels Television.
The minister acknowledged that UCH’s power challenges stem partly from its connection to the University of Ibadan, which includes private entities and residences within the same grid.
“How can the hospital bear the burden of electricity costs for those who are not part of its operations?” he wondered, noting that resolving this entanglement is crucial to a sustainable solution.
He assured that the Minister of Power is working to provide a new transformer to improve electricity supply.
“We are about solutions, not complaints. It is easy to complain, but what we are trying to do is provide lasting solutions,” said Pate.
In summary, UCH management continues to work around the clock to ensure a reliable power supply for critical healthcare services while engaging stakeholders and securing long-term solutions.
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