Nigeria is pushing forward its renewable energy agenda with goals to produce 23% of electricity from renewables by 2025 and 36% by 2030, as outlined in the Renewable Energy Master Plan. By 2025, the country aims to achieve 2 gigawatts from small hydropower, 500 megawatts from solar photovoltaics (PV), 400 megawatts from biomass, and 40 megawatts from wind energy. Projections by GlobalData estimate that Nigeria’s total renewable capacity will grow to 1.7 gigawatts by 2035. Power generation is expected to increase at a compound annual growth rate of 17.5%, reaching 1.8 terawatt hours. Among renewable sources, solar PV shows the strongest momentum, backed by steady investment and growing recognition of its reliability for off-grid and distributed energy access. While Nigeria holds abundant natural gas reserves, inconsistent fuel supply chains and underdeveloped infrastructure have undermined thermal power generation. These challenges have restricted the viability of long-term power purchase agreements and left significant capacity underused.
Solar PV is gaining ground as a viable option, notably as urbanisation drives up residential electricity demand and industrial needs in sectors such as cement and textiles add strain to the grid. The common reliance on diesel generators suggests demand far exceeds official estimates, highlighting the urgency for sustainable energy alternatives. Experts view renewable energy, supported by storage solutions, as a critical pathway to address supply deficits, improve energy access, and strengthen Nigeria’s energy security. The ongoing shift positions the country for inclusive growth while reducing dependence on fossil fuels and promoting a more resilient, low-carbon economy.
