Comparison of off-grid electrification versus grid extension

Viac o knihe

Reliable and sustainable electricity supply is lacking in many rural areas of Nigeria. An electrification planning study utilizing geographic information systems focuses on five Nigerian states: Cross River, Niger, Ogun, Plateau, and Sokoto. It emphasizes spatially resolved modeling of grid expansion, considering factors like topography, existing infrastructure, and land uses (e.g., forests, water areas, nature reserves). The goal is to achieve integrated, cost-optimized planning that leads to actionable recommendations. Results indicate a significant need to increase installed power generation capacities. Additionally, the study recommends decentralized power supply systems, including hybrid mini-grids based on renewable energy in growth centers and larger towns, as well as small-scale solar home systems in sparsely populated areas. Future integration of mini-grids into an extended power grid can enhance overall power generation capacity. Network expansion and decentralized solutions can complement each other, leveraging the strengths of both approaches to avoid a binary choice. This strategy can foster greater economic diversification, shifting focus from the oil and gas industry to climate-friendly alternatives that promote development in rural regions.