Country briefing: Nigeria

Nigeria has the largest population in the world without electricity, estimated at around 40% of the population in 2021.

Electricity demand growth is set to soar in Nigeria, driven by robust economic growth and improving levels of electricity access.

The current electricity system in Nigeria is dominated by gas-fired power plants and off-grid diesel generators.

In this report, we explore the level of wind and solar that Nigeria would need to install as part of a global 1.5ºC compatible pathway. Our benchmarks are also compatible with tripling renewables capacity by 2030.

Key findings

To meet electricity demand growth while reducing reliance on diesel and gas in the power sector, wind and solar generation would need to grow to 60-90 TWh by 2030.

Over 50 GW of wind and solar would be needed by 2030 (37 GW of solar and 17 GW of wind).

A rapid rollout of renewables could help meet electricity demand and provide reliable, zero-carbon electricity to Nigerians, while avoiding continued reliance on diesel and gas.

However, it will require large-scale investment to help accelerate renewables deployment and drive grid expansion. International support will be key in creating an enabling environment to catalyse private investment in Nigeria.