Electricity in Nigeria
Nigeria's energy landscape presents a complex picture marked by significant reliance on fossil fuels, notable gaps in electricity access, and emerging opportunities for renewable energy development.
Electricity Access and Infrastructure
Population without Electricity
As of 2020, approximately 66 million Nigerians lacked access to electricity.
Electrification Rate
The overall electrification rate stands at 59.6%, with a stark contrast between urban (89.2%) and rural (26.3%) areas as of 2021.
Installed Capacity
Nigeria's installed capacity was recorded at 11.691 million kW in 2020.
Consumption
The country consumed 24.61 billion kWh of electricity in 2019.
Transmission and Distribution Losses
High losses were noted, totaling 4.713 billion kWh in 2019.
Electricity Generation Sources
Fossil Fuels
Dominating the energy mix, fossil fuels accounted for 78.1% of the total capacity in 2020.
Hydroelectricity
This renewable source contributes 21.7% to the total capacity.
Other Renewables
Solar energy and biomass/waste make minimal contributions (0.2% and 0.1%, respectively); other renewable sources are negligible.
Coal Industry
Production and Consumption
Nigeria produced 44,000 metric tons and consumed 85,000 metric tons of coal in 2020.
Reserves
The country has proven coal reserves of 344 million metric tons as of 2019.
Petroleum Sector
Crude Oil
Production stood at 1.65 million barrels per day in 2021, with significant exports and no recorded imports.
Refined Petroleum
Despite high crude oil production, refined petroleum production remains relatively low. The consumption was noted at 483,100 barrels per day in 2019.
Reserves
Estimated crude oil reserves are substantial, at 36.89 billion barrels as of 2021.
Natural Gas
Production and Consumption - In 2019, Nigeria produced 46.3 billion cubic meters and consumed 18.8 billion cubic meters of natural gas.
Exports
The country exported 27.5 billion cubic meters in 2019.
Reserves
Nigeria boasts substantial proven natural gas reserves of 5.76 trillion cubic meters as of 2021.
Emissions and Energy Consumption
CO2 Emissions
In 2019, Nigeria emitted 104.494 million metric tons of CO2, primarily from petroleum and natural gas sectors.
Per Capita Energy Consumption
The energy consumption per capita remains low compared to global standards.
While Nigeria's energy sector is predominantly fueled by its abundant fossil fuel resources, the country faces significant challenges in ensuring universal electricity access, particularly in rural areas. There are inefficiencies in the energy distribution network, and a growing need to transition towards more renewable energy sources. Improving energy infrastructure and exploring sustainable energy alternatives are key steps towards Nigeria's sustainable development in the energy sector.