Solar energy: A panacea for the electricity generation crisis in Nigeria

Abstract

In assessing the status of solar energy in Nigeria, efforts have been made to review researchers' works. This review article presents the status of solar energy in Nigeria. Also, it provides an all-inclusive contemporary analysis of the extensive research carried out in this field by Nigerians and renewable energy researchers in general. With her large population, Nigeria requires enormous energy for sustainability; this has caused somewhat an overdependence on crude oil and natural gas for energy. This overdependence constantly puts the country in an energy consumption crisis when these resources are not readily available. It has its disadvantages as it affects climate change and her economy. Solar energy growth and application/adoption from the global, African, West African, and Nigerian perspectives were expounded with that of Nigeria buttressed on to bring into view the contrast between her adoption of this technology and the world. Albeit, the electricity generation from solar energy in Nigeria has also been estimated from solar radiation data, results of this analysis showed some areas in Northern Nigeria as the regions with the highest electricity generation capacity; the estimation using 1 kWp (Kilowatt-peak) PV (photovoltaic) modules were made from obtained data for possible electricity generation in kWh. The challenges to adopting these technologies were noted together with some recommendations/policies on how to curb these challenges and their implications. This review article will be of massive benefit to both the government and researchers in this research area and scientists who are currently working on renewable-related projects.