Innovative Solar-Powered Tricycles to Slash Farmers’ Transport Costs by 90% in Adamawa

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Posted: August 30, 2024 at 10:21 am, Updated: August 30, 2024 at 10:21 am

Key Points

Solar-Powered Tricycles Launched: The Adamawa State Agribusiness Support Programme (ADAS-P) and partners introduced solar-powered tricycles to significantly reduce farmers’ transport costs in Yola, Adamawa State.
Collaborative Effort: The initiative was organised by Standard Microfinance Bank Yola in collaboration with Moonlight Energy, Carbon Trust, Newcastle University, and Innovate UK, aiming to promote clean energy and affordable transportation for farmers.
Significant Impact: The tricycles, powered by rechargeable batteries and solar energy, are expected to slash farmers’ transportation costs by 90%, offering a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional fuel.

Innovative Solar-Powered Tricycles to Slash Farmers’ Transport Costs by 90% in Adamawa

Yola, Nigeria – The Adamawa State Agribusiness Support Programme (ADAS-P) joined forces with key stakeholders to unveil solar-powered tricycles, marking a significant step towards clean energy and affordable transportation for farmers in Yola, Adamawa State.

Standard Microfinance Bank Yola organised the event in collaboration with Moonlight Energy, Carbon Trust, Newcastle University, and Innovate UK. Their mission is to cut down on diesel and petrol reliance, reduce transportation costs, and combat climate change.

During the launch at the City Green Hotel, the spotlight was on electric motorcycles and tricycles powered by rechargeable batteries. These batteries can be charged using electricity from the grid or solar power, offering farmers a sustainable alternative to traditional fuel.

Dr. Yomi, representing Newcastle University, presented the concept of “Solar-Powered Tricycles and Battery Swap Points.” He highlighted that the motorcycles come with two spare batteries that can be easily charged at designated stations. This strategy is expected to reduce farmers’ transportation costs by a staggering 90%.

Moonlight Energy’s representative emphasised the program’s goal: to provide affordable, sustainable, and efficient last-mile transport for Nigerian farmers. “We’ll provide portable battery swap stations for electric motorcycles and tricycles,” he stated, underscoring the initiative’s focus on accessibility.

Standard Microfinance Bank Yola’s Chief Operating Officer reassured attendees that the bank would soon announce how customers can access these innovative motorcycles.

Representing the Ministry for Works and Energy Development, Dr. Dogara Paul Musa expressed the ministry’s readiness to partner with the organisers for the advancement of Adamawa State.

The programme’s presence was marked by the participation of key officials, including Mr. James Birdling, Head of Component 2, and Mr. Praise Dauda, Head of Component 3.

The new motorcycles boast a battery range of 80 kilometres before requiring a recharge, offering a practical and eco-friendly solution for the state’s farming community.