Electricity in Nigeria in 2024

In 2024, Nigeria's electricity consumption is modest, with more than three-quarters of its electricity generated from fossil fuels, specifically gas, which accounts for approximately 31 TWh. The remaining electricity is sourced from low-carbon or clean energy, with hydropower contributing around 9 TWh. In comparison to the global average electricity consumption of 3813 watts per person, Nigeria's electricity generation is significantly lower, which can affect the country's economic growth and development. Low levels of electricity generation can result in challenges such as unreliable electricity supply, hindering industrial productivity, affecting daily life, and limiting access to essential services like healthcare and education.

Suggestions

To boost low-carbon electricity generation, Nigeria can learn from other countries' successes, particularly in expanding nuclear, wind, and solar power. For instance, Brazil has effectively harnessed wind energy, generating around 108 TWh, a learning point for Nigeria given the similar availability of wind resources. Similarly, India has made noteworthy strides in solar energy, generating 134 TWh, demonstrating the vast potential and viability of solar power. Furthermore, the experience of the United Arab Emirates in generating 32 TWh through nuclear energy highlights the potential of this clean energy source to significantly contribute to Nigeria's electricity demands. These examples emphasize the importance of diverse low-carbon sources, including solar, wind, and nuclear, in achieving a sustainable energy future.

History

Historically, Nigeria's low-carbon electricity generation has experienced several fluctuations, predominantly in hydropower. In the early 1980s, there were minor changes, with slight declines and increases. The 1990s saw a notable increase in 1991 of 1.5 TWh in hydropower generation. The early 2000s witnessed variability, with a significant rise in 2002 followed by a decrease in subsequent years. The years 2010 to 2020 showcased incremental increases, reaching a peak along with some declines. Interestingly, in the last few years, there has been cautious optimism with moderate efforts seen in 2022 to bolster hydropower by 1.3 TWh. Moving forward, leveraging consistent improvements and integrating additional low-carbon technologies like nuclear, wind, and solar can provide a more sustainable electricity generation strategy for Nigeria.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources