National Grid Collapse: 5 alternative power sources for Nigerians

These frequent national grid collapse call for a need for reliable alternative power sources

Nigeria recently experienced its ninth occurrence of national grid collapse in 2024, which has left many Nigerians without power once more and made living difficult. Unforeseen blackouts have become a hard reality in the country.

These frequent collapses call for an urgent need for reliable alternative power sources as unforeseen blackouts have become a hard reality in the country.

To put an end to this devastating heartbreak it is important to seek an effective alternative and reduce dependence on the unstable grid.

Here are 5 alternative power sources for Nigerians amid the frequent national grid collapses:

1. Solar Power

Nigeria has a lot of potential for solar energy, with about seven hours of sunshine daily, and it is very reliable. The rooftop solar panels can generate electricity for decades and are a stable energy source of energy.

Homes and businesses can embrace this alternative means of power to keep daily lives in order especially as the country faces incessant grid collapse.

2. Wind Energy

Despite having a lot of potential, wind energy is another alternative that is less popular than solar energy, especially in the northern part of Nigeria where wind speeds are strong.

This alternative means of energy can be employed in small-scale wind projects and hybrid systems to provide energy to remote, off-grid communities thereby reducing the stress on the national grid.

3. Hydropower

Nigeria is a country that is blessed with several rivers and streams in rural areas and urban centers that can be used to generate hydroelectric electricity.

Although Nigeria already has several sizable hydroelectric plants, such as Kainji and Jebba, which are contributing to the national grid. The government can power smaller communities near rivers or streams without requiring major infrastructure.

4. Biomass Energy

Biomass energy uses renewable resources to generate cleaner power rather than letting it pollute the environment and enhance the economy.

Biomass energy can be used to produce biogas for cooking and small-scale energy from animal and agricultural waste, particularly in rural areas where agricultural waste is readily available.

5. Tidal energy

Tidal power generates power by using the flow of ocean and river currents, to provide a steady and reliable energy source. This is a good option for Nigeria, particularly in coastal locations such as Lagos, Bayelsa, and Delta, where powerful tidal currents may power turbines. Tidal power, if correctly managed, has the potential to become a sustainable energy source for Nigeria, particularly for coastal towns, assisting the country in meeting its expanding energy needs.

Credit: Lawrence Agbo, Vanguard News