In 2024, Nigeria's electricity consumption presents a challenging picture characterized by a strong reliance on fossil fuels. More than three-quarters of its electricity generation, about 31 TWh, comes from fossil fuels, particularly natural gas, leaving clean energy sources like hydropower to contribute nearly nine TWh. This means that over two-thirds of Nigeria's electricity generation is from non-clean sources, contrasting starkly with the ideal push towards more sustainable options. When compared to the global average of electricity consumption, which stands at a substantial 3,813 kWh/person, Nigeria's per capita consumption of 176 kWh/person signals a significant shortfall. Such low levels of electricity generation can hinder economic development, technological growth, and ultimately impact the quality of life as access to reliable and clean electricity remains restricted for a large portion of the population.
Is Electricity Growing in Nigeria?
Looking at electricity growth in Nigeria, there seems to have been a regression over the years. The latest figure stands at an annual consumption of 176 kWh/person, a decrease from the previous high in 2016 of 187 kWh/person, marking a reduction of 11 kWh/person. This decline is also reflected in low-carbon electricity generation. In 2002, the per capita generation from low-carbon sources hit 62 kWh—an all-time high—compared to 41 kWh/person in 2024, a decrease of 21 kWh/person. These figures highlight a concerning stagnation in the growth of electricity, especially from clean energy sources, raising alarms regarding Nigeria’s capability to provide sustainable energy in line with global standards and demands.
Suggestions
To effectively increase its low-carbon electricity generation, Nigeria can draw inspiration from countries excelling in solar and wind energy. For example, India, similar in some socio-economic aspects, has made noteworthy advances in solar and wind, generating 134 TWh and 82 TWh respectively. Brazil, with its significant wind capacity of 108 TWh, provides another model for expansive growth. By investing in solar and wind infrastructure, alongside exploring nuclear options similar to the United Arab Emirates, which has generated 32 TWh from nuclear power, Nigeria can enhance its clean energy production. With ample sunlight and opportunities to develop nuclear infrastructure, Nigeria has the potential to revolutionize its energy landscape, drastically reducing fossil fuel dependence while aligning with global carbon reduction goals.
History
Reflecting on Nigeria’s history of low-carbon electricity generation, hydropower has seen a fluctuating but significant presence since the 1980s. In the early 1990s, hydropower recorded growth with a noteworthy increase in 1991 of 1.5 TWh. Post-2000s, there have been notable peaks like the substantial increase seen in 2002 of 2.3 TWh, followed by varying changes, with both increases and decreases over subsequent years. The inconsistency in hydroelectric output over the decades suggests a need for more stable and expanded investment in clean energy types that can sustain and grow Nigeria's clean electricity generation. By learning from global leaders in low-carbon advancements, Nigeria can aspire to build a robust, diversified energy sector that meets both national demands and global sustainability commitments.