As of 2024, Nigeria's electricity consumption is characterized by a heavy reliance on fossil energy, particularly natural gas, which accounts for more than three-quarters of the total generation at about 31 TWh. In contrast, the portion of electricity derived from low-carbon sources like hydropower is significantly smaller, contributing almost a quarter with roughly 9 TWh. Nigeria's per capita electricity consumption stands at approximately 173 kWh, which is considerably lower than the global average of 3,649 kWh. The low level of electricity generation in Nigeria not only highlights an unequal distribution of energy resources compared to global counterparts but may also hinder economic growth and quality of life, affecting areas such as education, healthcare, and industrial development.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Nigeria?
Recent trends in Nigeria show a concerning decline in electricity consumption, decreasing from 187 kWh per person in 2023 to 173 kWh in 2024. Similarly, low-carbon electricity has also witnessed a decline from its peak in 2002 to 40 kWh per person, showing a reduction by 22 kWh. These decreases emphasize a pressing need for intensified efforts to expand electricity generation and particularly clean energy sources, as a dwindling energy supply could negatively impact social and economic progression. The decline, especially in sustainable power, is troubling and calls for initiatives to reverse this trend and promote a more robust and resilient energy infrastructure.
Suggestions
To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Nigeria can draw valuable insights from regions that have significantly harnessed solar and nuclear power. For instance, China's commendable achievements in solar (1,114 TWh) and wind energy (1,093 TWh) could guide Nigeria in exploring solar technologies given its similar climate advantages. Additionally, the nuclear energy successes of the United States (778 TWh) and France (371 TWh) demonstrate the immense potential and reliability of nuclear power. By investing in solar and nuclear energy infrastructure, Nigeria can reduce its dependency on fossil fuels, mitigate climate change impacts, and provide sustainable economic opportunities, ensuring a greener and more secure energy future.
History
Historically, Nigeria's low-carbon electricity generation has been punctuated by fluctuations in hydroelectric output. In the 1980s and 1990s, minimal growth was observed, with increments in some years like 1991 reaching 1.5 TWh. Entering the 21st century, however, the growth trend has been inconsistently marred by declines, notably in 2006 and 2008 when hydropower decreased by 1.5 TWh and 1.2 TWh respectively. Despite intermittent surges such as the significant boost in 2016 with an increase of 2.4 TWh, recent years including 2024 have experienced slight declines. This irregular growth points towards a need for strategic investment in stable and scalable low-carbon technologies like nuclear and solar to secure consistent progress in Nigeria's clean electricity generation.
