Solar lease agreement for West African container terminal with Starsight Energy

The West Africa Container Terminal (WACT) has inked a significant Solar Lease Agreement with Starsight Energy, marking a pivotal moment in the terminal’s transition towards renewable energy. Over a 15-year period, the agreement is expected to provide 1.2 gigawatt-hours of solar electricity annually, with 30% of the terminal’s electricity set to switch from diesel generators to renewable sources by 2024.

This partnership signifies a major stride in WACT’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions and aligns with APM Terminals’ global pledge to become fully net-zero by 2040. Managed by Jeethu Jose, WACT’s Managing Director, the terminal underscores its dedication to decarbonization, viewing the agreement as a significant milestone in its net-zero journey.

Ladi Sanni, Managing Director of Starsight Energy Nigeria, emphasized the partnership’s importance in facilitating the transition to clean energy for global brands like APM Terminals/WACT. The collaboration reflects Starsight Energy and WACT’s forward-thinking energy management strategies and environmental stewardship.

The project entails the installation of a 1,092 kWp solar-only system in two phases, aimed at substantially reducing WACT’s carbon footprint by approximately 20kt of Carbon Dioxide over the agreement’s lifespan. Additionally, the initiative aligns with Nigeria’s broader objective of shifting towards cleaner energy sources, contributing to national sustainability goals.

WACT, a subsidiary of APM Terminals, operates as the first greenfield container terminal established under a Public-Private Partnership model in Nigeria. Situated within the Oil and Gas Free Zone in Onne Port, Rivers State, WACT serves as a vital gateway to markets beyond Lagos and plays a crucial role in East Nigeria’s connectivity.

The signing ceremony, attended by APM Terminals Nigeria board members, APM Terminals Nigeria and WACT management, and Starsight Energy representatives, underscores the partnership’s significance in fostering a sustainable future for WACT and Nigeria’s energy sector.

The collaboration between WACT and Starsight Energy represents a key milestone in Nigeria’s renewable energy journey. By transitioning a significant portion of its electricity consumption to solar power, WACT not only advances its sustainability objectives but also contributes to national efforts in reducing carbon emissions and embracing cleaner energy sources