The Centre for Petroleum, Energy Economics & Law (CPEEL), University of Ibadan, had the honour of hosting Professor J.C. Hernández, a distinguished scholar from the University of Jaén, Spain, as part of a focused academic exchange initiative. The visit, which took place from 28th to 31st July 2025, was held under the theme “Strengthening Collaboration and Innovation in Sustainable Energy Solutions”, and aimed to promote international academic collaboration, share expertise in renewable energy systems, and enhance local capacity in sustainable electrification.
Professor Hernández engaged in a wide range of academic and practical activities designed to foster dialogue and strengthen partnerships between institutions. He delivered a keynote lecture focused on the structure and research opportunities available at the University of Jaén, and more critically, on the role of micro-grids and renewable energy systems in addressing energy access challenges in developing economies. The lecture was targeted at undergraduate and postgraduate students and was followed by an interactive Q&A session that generated thoughtful discussions on sustainable energy applications in local contexts.
A major highlight of the visit was a collaborative research roundtable where opportunities for joint research, funding proposals, and academic publications were explored. The session provided a valuable platform for faculty and researchers to engage directly with Professor Hernández on potential areas of mutual interest, particularly in the field of renewable energy technologies.
Technical sessions focused on the practical implementation of sustainable energy solutions, particularly for rural electrification. Participants discussed the viability of microgrids and the deployment of solar energy systems in off-grid communities. These sessions were complemented by a guided tour of CPEEL’s Innovation Laboratory, which features working demonstrations of solar irrigation systems, biodigesters, solar dryers, and smart metering infrastructure. These technologies underscored the Centre’s ongoing commitment to applied research and local innovation.
In addition to lectures and research discussions, the visit included capacity-building workshops aimed at equipping researchers, students, and energy practitioners with practical skills in technology transfer, project development, and proposal writing. A hands-on virtual reality training session exposed participants to real-world scenarios involving solar PV installation, wind turbine configuration, smart metering, and power grid management. Furthermore, a session on grant acquisition strategies provided insights into accessing both local and international funding sources, including best practices for preparing competitive proposals and managing project budgets.
The visit concluded with a cultural and community engagement tour. Professor Hernández visited key local landmarks, community energy projects, and traditional markets, offering him a broader understanding of the cultural and socioeconomic landscape in which sustainable energy solutions are implemented. The tour reinforced the importance of integrating community needs and indigenous knowledge into energy planning and research.
Conclusion
The visit of Professor J.C. Hernández to the University of Ibadan was a resounding success. It significantly contributed to strengthening academic ties, transferring knowledge, and inspiring innovation in the field of sustainable energy. The Centre for Petroleum, Energy Economics & Law is confident that this engagement will serve as a springboard for continued collaboration in research, training, and capacity building. The Centre extends its sincere appreciation to all faculty members, participants, and supporting units who contributed to the success of this impactful visit.