States in Nigeria face a rapid growing energy demand. In 2022, the electricity demand in Nigeria amounted to 32.1 terawatt hours (TWh). Despite this, only about 60% of the population has access to electricity, leaving a significant portion without reliable power. The country’s energy mix is dominated by natural gas, which accounts for about 80% of power generation, with the remainder coming from oil and renewable sources like solar.
Here’s a detailed list of Nigerian states ranked by their energy demands from highest to lowest:
1. Lagos: As the economic hub of Nigeria, Lagos has the highest energy demand due to its dense population and industrial activities. The city’s energy consumption is driven by commercial enterprises, residential areas, and a bustling informal sector.
2. Kano: Known for its bustling markets and manufacturing industries, Kano has a high energy consumption rate. The state’s energy demand is fueled by textile production, food processing, and other industrial activities.
3. Oyo: With a large population and significant agricultural activities, Oyo’s energy demand is substantial. The state’s energy consumption is driven by both urban and rural areas, with a focus on agricultural processing and small-scale industries.
4. Rivers: As the center of Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, Rivers state has a high energy demand. The state’s energy consumption is driven by the oil and gas sector, as well as residential and commercial activities.
5. Kaduna: Home to several industries and a growing population, Kaduna has a considerable energy demand. The state’s energy consumption is driven by manufacturing, agriculture, and residential areas.
6. Anambra: With its industrial and commercial activities, Anambra’s energy demand is noteworthy. The state’s energy consumption is driven by small-scale industries, trade, and residential areas.
7. Delta: Another state with significant oil and gas activities, Delta has a high energy demand. The state’s energy consumption is driven by the oil and gas sector, as well as residential and commercial activities.
8. Imo: Known for its industrial activities and population, Imo’s energy demand is considerable. The state’s energy consumption is driven by manufacturing, trade, and residential areas.
9. Edo: With its mix of industrial and commercial activities, Edo has a notable energy demand. The state’s energy consumption is driven by manufacturing, trade, and residential areas.
10. Ogun: As an industrial state with several manufacturing plants, Ogun’s energy demand is high. The state’s energy consumption is driven by manufacturing, trade, and residential areas.
These states are at the forefront of Nigeria’s energy consumption, reflecting the country’s economic activities and population distribution. Addressing the energy needs of these states is crucial for Nigeria’s overall economic growth and development.
States with Low Energy Demand
On the other end of the spectrum, there are states with relatively low energy demands due to less industrial activity, lower population density, or fewer commercial enterprises. Some of these states include:
1. Yobe: With a lower population density and fewer industrial activities, Yobe has a relatively low energy demand.
2. Zamfara: Known for its agricultural activities rather than industrial, Zamfara’s energy consumption is minimal compared to more industrialized states.
3. Nasarawa: Primarily an agricultural state, Nasarawa has lower energy demands due to the lack of large-scale industrial operations.
4. Ekiti: Ekiti’s energy demand is lower due to its focus on agriculture and smaller population centers.
5. Gombe: With a smaller population and fewer commercial activities, Gombe’s energy demand is on the lower side.
Facts about Energy Demand in Nigeria
1. Fuelwood and Charcoal: Despite the growing demand for electricity, a significant portion of the population still relies on traditional biomass like fuelwood and charcoal for cooking and heating.
2. Solar Potential: Nigeria has a vast potential for solar energy, but the adoption rate of solar home systems and mini-grids is still relatively low.
3. Diesel/Petrol Generators: Many households and businesses in Nigeria use diesel or petrol generators as a backup power source due to the unreliable electricity supply.
4. Energy Expenditure: Households in Nigeria spend a considerable portion of their income on energy, with fuelwood and charcoal being the most affordable options for many.
5. Energy Access Disparity: There is a significant disparity in energy access between urban and rural areas, with urban areas having better access to electricity.
Addressing the energy needs of both high-demand and low-demand states is crucial for Nigeria’s overall economic growth and development.