Report: Estimated 150mn people lack reliable access to electricity in Nigeria

Nigeria, the most populous country in Africa, is facing a significant challenge when it comes to providing reliable access to electricity for its citizens. With an estimated 150 million people lacking reliable power, the country is grappling with issues of underserved communities, reliance on diesel and petrol generators, and high costs associated with filling the electricity gap. Reports indicate that over 90 million individuals in Nigeria do not have electricity, while those who do face frequent reliability issues. The current average daily supply from the grid stands at about 4 gigawatts, significantly lower than the 60 gigawatts supplied by diesel and petrol generators. This stark contrast highlights the urgent need to bridge the electricity deficit and improve reliability in the country. Fauzia Okediji, Manager of Utility at GEAPP, shed light on potential solutions to address Nigeria's electricity challenges during a recent interview with CNBC Africa. She emphasized the importance of leveraging natural resources like solar photovoltaic (PV) systems and capitalizing on the decreasing costs of technology to incentivize the private sector to invest in the energy sector. By integrating interconnected mini-grids into the utility infrastructure, communities can benefit from reliable power supply, leading to increased economic activity and improved livelihoods. Okediji pointed out that the deployment of solar mini-grids in off-grid rural areas and the upgrading of existing distribution networks are crucial steps in enhancing electricity access and reliability. Aligning site selection with the investment plans of electricity distribution companies is essential in improving outcomes and ensuring sustainable power solutions. By addressing distribution network issues, such as underinvestment and collection losses, and assessing the demand for electricity in specific locations, stakeholders can work together to close the access gap and provide consistent power supply to underserved communities. The partnership between utilities and the private sector plays a vital role in deploying generation assets and upgrading infrastructure to meet the growing energy needs of the population. Ultimately, by focusing on site selection, demand assessment, and infrastructure upgrades, Nigeria can make significant strides in overcoming its electricity deficit and enhancing the well-being of its citizens. The integration of renewable energy sources and innovative technologies offers a promising path towards a more sustainable and reliable electricity system in the country.