Renewable Energy in Nigeria: The Challenges and Opportunities in Mountainous and Riverine Regions

Abstract

Renewable energy system has become a salient alternative of power in remote small mountainous and riverine regions. High cost of electricity supply and carbon emission reduction could be achieved with the use of renewable energy. This work presents the challenges and opportunities of renewable energy in Nigeria. The various renewable energy sources in Nigeria and their potential was discussed in light of the established master plan of the energy commission of Nigeria. Some of the challenges facing renewable energy development and implementation were highlighted and the various opportunities available were also emphasized. A micro power off grid system made of Biomass, Hydro and Solar Photovoltaic (PV) was proposed to power a mountainous and riverine region that is not grid connected based on the renewable energy potentials available in the region. This topology would not only help reduce the cost of electricity production, but also improve the carbon credit, making the environment eco-friendly.

Keywords

• Renewable Energy; HOMER; Grid system; Standalone system; Grid