Optimal benefits of utilizing renewable energy technologies in Nigeria and the Cibs quadrangle: a review

Abstract

With rapid population growth and increase in industrial activities, more energy is consumed, resulting in environmental pollution and economic difficulties, ttherefore, the need for utilising renewable energy resources has emerged globally and it is possible that China, India, Brazil and South Africa (CIBS) would develop renewable energy technologies that are more appropriate for the needs of developing countries. Nigeria for example has adequate fuel supplies (world’s sixth largest exporter of crude oil) yet more than 70 percent of its inhabitants do not have access to electricity for their domestic needs. This paper presents some potential of solar power at six sites in each of the geopolitical zones of Nigeria. The sites are Owerri (5 o 29’N, 7 o 1’ E), Port-Harcourt (4o
47’ N, 7 o 0’E), Lagos (6 o 26’ N, 3 o 17’E), Abuja (9 o 3’ N, 7 o 15’E), Maiduguri (11 o 51’ N, 13 o 9’E) and Sokoto (13 o 3’N, 5 o 14’E) that are located in different climatic zones of Nigeria. The solar electricity potential at all the sites were over 3000 Wh/m2/day which is enough to meet typical domestic energy needs of typical households. It has been discussed how other African countries
can apply the results to meet their electrical energy needs that will have a multiplier effect of improving the living standard of the people while preserving the environment, maintain sustainability and generate employment boosted by strong political will and collaborative links with the CIBS quadrangle