Renewable energy (RE) solutions present a practical and sustainable way to address the challenges created by persistent national grid collapses and other energy crises. The national grid in its current state requires more reliable alternative within the power generation ecosystem.
The need to infuse RE solutions, such as solar energy, wind power and hydropower, remains crucial in addressing current power generation challenges. The federal government has already begun to implement the National Renewable Energy Roadmap (NRER) developed by the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) in collaboration with the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) with a clear aim of providing alternative power that reduce reliance on the centralized grid while maintaining at least an average power supply through decentralization.
Decentralized RE systems will play a key role in bridging the current power supply gap. For instance, photovoltaic solar and onshore wind systems can power rural and semi-urban areas often neglected by the national grid. These systems will not only provide consistent electricity but also empower rural economies, enabling micro-businesses to grow and improving access to essential services such as healthcare and education. With meaningful local and global collaborations, we can achieve the optimal installed capacity of electricity by leveraging on RE sources to ensure energy stability across the country.
The Energy Commission of Nigeria, under my stewardship, stands as a catalyst, championing policies that attract private sector investment, build local capacity, and prioritize renewable energy integration through extended collaborations with stakeholders, governments, and global communities. The National Energy Policy and it’s Master Plan recently unveiled by the Federal Government through ECN seek to increase the renewable electricity generation by aggressively pursuing RE energy integration into the Nation’s energy mix.
The RE systems have become more efficient and cheaper over the years, a paradigm shift to renewable energy will substantially close the energy gaps, reduce grid disruptions, and accelerate its journey toward energy independence and economic growth.
