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By Rita Okoye
As Nigeria continues to grapple with persistent energy shortages and the high cost of electricity, renewable energy expert Mabayoje Adetola Omotola has urged stakeholders to prioritise renewable energy solutions as a sustainable path to meeting the country’s power needs.
Speaking at a recent seminar on sustainable energy, Mabayoje, who boasts over nine years of experience in renewable energy systems, energy audits, and project management, emphasized that Nigeria’s energy future lies in adopting solar, battery storage, and hybrid energy solutions.
“Renewable energy is not just an alternative; it is central to achieving reliable, affordable, and sustainable power in Nigeria,” Mabayoje stated. “With proper planning and investment, we can significantly reduce dependence on fossil fuels while enhancing energy access across the country.”
Mabayoje’s career spans Nigeria, Africa, and Europe, where he has successfully overseen renewable energy projects with a total solar generating capacity exceeding 80MW, complemented by 40MWh of battery storage and 185,000HP of cooling systems. These interventions have collectively cut carbon emissions by over 80,000 tonnes.
According to him, scaling similar initiatives in Nigeria’s commercial, industrial, and residential sectors could lead to significant cost savings, higher efficiency, and reduced environmental impact. “Every megawatt of renewable energy deployed contributes to economic and environmental benefits,” she noted.
Currently serving as Senior Energy Inspector at the Highland Council in Scotland, Mabayoje conducts energy and Net Zero audits for council properties. Her assessments provide actionable recommendations on energy, water, and carbon reduction while guiding investment and funding decisions for sustainable projects.
“The work I do in Scotland offers valuable lessons for Nigeria,” Mabayoje explained. “Inefficient building designs and outdated cooling systems in Nigeria are major energy drains. Structured audits and renewable integration can drastically improve energy efficiency nationwide.”
Before his current role, Mabayoje worked with Starsight Energy in Lagos, managing over 500 hybrid solar and battery energy storage system installations for commercial banks. Her efforts delivered sustainable cooling systems and off-grid energy solutions that lowered operating costs while promoting renewable energy adoption.
A graduate of Mechanical Engineering from the University of Lagos, Mabayoje earned his Master’s in Environmental Management (Energy) from Glasgow Caledonian University, Scotland. Her dissertation explored microgrid solar PV systems in commercial buildings and offered practical recommendations for renewable energy integration in Nigeria.
Mabayoje’s approach combines technical expertise with robust project management skills, including construction oversight, environmental impact assessments, and compliance with safety standards. He has also championed corporate social responsibility programmes aligned with Net Zero objectives.
Industry observers have praised his advocacy, citing Nigeria’s energy sector challenges, including frequent grid failures, escalating fossil fuel costs, and the growing impact of climate change. “Investing in renewable energy is one of the fastest and most cost-effective solutions for sustainable power generation,” Mabayoje emphasized.
He also highlighted the importance of supportive government policies, access to financing, and training skilled professionals to bridge the country’s energy gaps. “Collaboration between policymakers, engineers, and financial institutions is key to unlocking investments in renewable technologies and energy-efficient systems,” He said.
Mabayoje holds multiple professional affiliations that reinforce her expertise. He is an Associate Member of the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA), the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE), the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), and the Project Management Institute (PMI). He is also registered with the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN).
In addition to his technical and academic credentials, Mabayoje has earned certifications such as the Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS), the CSCS Construction Skills Certification, and a Six Sigma Yellow Belt in Project Management. These qualifications equip her to merge operational efficiency with environmental sustainability.
Concluding his address, Mabayoje stressed: “Renewable energy deployment in Nigeria is both a technical challenge and a national imperative. By embracing solar, battery storage, and hybrid systems, we can secure reliable electricity, reduce carbon emissions, and strengthen our resilience against climate change.”
