- Nigeria has the potential to harness decentralised solar energy solutions to power rural areas and reduce dependence on the national grid.
- ECN DG envisions Nigeria’s major roads illuminated by solar-powered LED lights, government buildings, and industrial parks operating on hybrid renewable energy sources.
The Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) has highlighted the country’s vast potential to harness decentralised solar energy solutions to power rural areas and reduce dependence on the national grid.
In a newly released report, Building a Sustainable Future: A Strategic Pathway to Innovation and Development through Sustainable Solutions via Renewable Energy, ECN Director-General Engr. Mustapha Abdullahi emphasised the transformative impact of renewable energy investments.
He envisioned a future where major roads are illuminated by solar-powered LED lights, government buildings, and industrial parks operating on hybrid renewable energy sources.
Abdullahi underscored how smart grids, solar-powered streetlights, and energy-efficient transport networks have improved connectivity and lowered costs, citing global examples such as Germany and China.
According to him, President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda has established a clear roadmap for a sustainable energy future.
The Federal Government has already taken practical steps, including:
- Developing Nigeria’s first gazetted National Energy Policy and implementation plan
- Localising and domesticating renewable energy solutions
- Fostering industries for local production of solar PV panels and batteries
- Establishing large-scale solar PV module assembly plants
- Developing a modular Green Hydrogen plant and a Bio-Methanol plant to expand energy access and lower costs
Abdullahi cited Sweden, Denmark, and Morocco’s Noor Ouarzazate Solar Complex as models Nigeria could follow in boosting economic growth through solar investments. The ECN Director-General stressed that renewable energy is key to addressing security and unemployment challenges. According to him:
- Solar-powered security cameras could be integrated into high-risk areas to enhance safety
- Tech-driven agriculture can create jobs, particularly for Nigeria’s youth population where over 60% are under 25 years old.
- Training programs in solar panel technology, smart agriculture, and energy management could generate employment while addressing power deficits.
Abdullahi also pointed to renewable energy’s transformative potential for education. He noted that Finland and South Korea have successfully implemented digital tools and smart classrooms powered by renewable energy.
He envisioned a Nigeria where rural schools benefit from uninterrupted electricity through solar microgrids, giving students in remote areas access to digital learning platforms.
To accelerate energy access, the Federal Government has allocated funds for the Solarisation of Critical Infrastructure initiative, which the ECN will implement.
The initiative aims to install up to 2-megawatt solar hybrid mini-grids in federal universities, teaching hospitals, and other public institutions across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. An ongoing energy audit will determine the specific needs of these institutions, with project completion targeted by year-end.
Abdullahi concluded by urging Nigeria to embrace renewable energy solutions as a necessity rather than an option.
“In an era where technological innovation shapes national destinies, Nigeria must leapfrog development hurdles by investing in renewable energy technologies and smart solutions to ensure a sustainable and prosperous future,” he said.