Renewable Energy Integration in Nigeria: A Critical Review of Challenges, Progress and Future Prospects

Abstract

Energy challenges plague Nigeria. Its inability to meet energy demand through conventional and natural resources has led to greater reliance on nonrenewable sources for power generation. While solar, wind, hydropower and biomass possess potential for energy security and development in Nigeria, getting these forms of energy into the grid is a challenge posed by a number of technical, legal, financial and institutional barriers. This paper introduces the subject of challenges to the incorporation of renewable energy into Nigeria's power grid by examining potential of such energy within Nigeria and the nation's legal frameworks. It examines other countries who are major users of renewable power and challenges they face within their own jurisdictions. The findings clearly show that even with the magnitude of potentials renewable energy possesses, numerous challenges pose great barriers to getting it through the power grid. Problems emanate from policies, lacklustre infrastructure, insufficient funds and various social and economic barriers. The paper draws conclusions and proffers suggestions on how to overcome these. In summary Nigeria with all the resources that nature has to offer can play a major role in renewable energy but this will not be achieved with the current systemic weaknesses embedded in her establishments. A multi-dimensional strategy is therefore necessary comprising the use of technology to create a smart grid, updates and reforms to law and policy regarding the inclusion of renewable energy in power generation, and building of in-house expertise to service the renewable energy sub-sector. Financial instruments must be structured to grant cheap, long-term loans for these very projects.