In 2024, Nigeria's electricity consumption paints a challenging picture. The country generated roughly 40 TWh of electricity, with more than three-quarters relying on fossil fuels such as gas, accounting for nearly 31 TWh. Clean energy sources, predominantly from hydropower, contribute to just over 9 TWh of electricity. This heavy reliance on fossil fuels poses environmental risks, including climate change and air pollution. Per capita electricity consumption stands at 173 kWh, which is significantly lower than the global average of 3781 kWh. Such low levels of electricity generation can hinder economic development, impact the quality of life, and slow down technological advancement, which is vital for national progress.
Is Electricity Growing in Nigeria?
Electricity generation growth in Nigeria is worrying, with consumption per person declining from a historic high of 187 kWh in 2016 to the current 173 kWh. Low-carbon electricity generation has similarly decreased, with only 40 kWh per person generated in 2024 compared to the previous peak of 62 kWh in 2002. This decline underscores an urgent need to intensify investment in clean energy to keep pace with Nigeria's growing population and demand for energy. An expanding electricity infrastructure could transform the country's economy and support sustainable growth, yet the current downward trend poses significant barriers.
Suggestions
To expand low-carbon electricity generation, Nigeria could draw lessons from regions that have succeeded in increasing clean energy production. For instance, China and the United States have made impressive strides in harnessing wind and solar power, generating hundreds of TWh each. These countries exemplify the potential of solar energy, a fitting solution for Nigeria's abundant sunlight. Additionally, adopting nuclear energy could provide a reliable, high-output power source, as demonstrated by countries like France and states in the United States. Prioritizing advancements in solar and nuclear generation will enable Nigeria to create a resilient, sustainable energy future, reducing its dependency on fossil fuels and fostering economic growth.
History
Nigeria's history of low-carbon electricity generation, largely based on hydroelectric power, reveals a series of fluctuations over the decades. The 1980s and 1990s saw modest increases and decreases in hydroelectric output, indicating some investment and development in the sector. The early 2000s marked a peak in hydroelectric expansion, particularly in 2002, followed by a significant drop in subsequent years. More recently, the 2010s and early 2020s have seen continuous fluctuations, with notable increases in 2010 and 2016. However, recent years reflect a downturn, underscoring a need for consistent and sustained expansion in low-carbon infrastructure. This highlights the critical importance of diversifying Nigeria’s energy portfolio, incorporating robust advancements in solar and nuclear energy to achieve energy security and environmental sustainability.