Nigeria's Hydro Plants Power 45% of Grid During Crisis

Nigeria's hydroelectric power plants are showing why renewable energy matters, stepping up to provide nearly half of the country's electricity when gas-powered plants faced supply disruptions.

From February 1 to 21, four hydro plants and one steam facility delivered 45 percent of all electricity on Nigeria's national grid. Out of 27 connected plants, just five carried nearly half the load, producing an average of 2,022 megawatts from the total 4,497 megawatts generated.

The Kainji hydroelectric plant led the charge with 546 megawatts, followed by the steam-powered Egbin plant at 495 megawatts. Jebba hydro contributed 425 megawatts, while newer addition Zungeru added 287 megawatts, and Shiroro provided 269 megawatts.

When gas supply constraints hit thermal power plants in early February, these hydro facilities demonstrated the resilience of diversified energy infrastructure. Unlike gas plants that depend on fuel deliveries and payment systems, hydroelectric facilities use the steady flow of Nigeria's rivers to generate clean, reliable power.

The Bright Side

This situation highlights an important lesson about energy security. Countries investing in renewable infrastructure create backup systems that work independently of fuel supply chains. Nigeria's hydro plants, some built decades ago, continue delivering consistent power without the payment complications affecting gas suppliers.

The performance of the Zungeru plant is particularly noteworthy as one of Nigeria's newer facilities. Commissioned recently, it's already proving its worth during challenging times, suggesting that continued investment in hydroelectric infrastructure could strengthen the entire grid.

These plants also represent environmental progress. The 2,022 megawatts from mostly hydro sources means cleaner energy for millions of Nigerians, with zero emissions compared to thermal alternatives.

Nigeria's experience offers a roadmap for other developing nations: diversified energy systems with strong renewable components create resilience when any single fuel source faces disruption.