Large-Scale Solar Power in Nigeria: The Case for Floating Photovoltaics

Abstract

Apart from the well-known environmental reasons, other factors necessitating the reduction in economies’ dependence on fossil fuels, such as petrol, have emerged in the present day, with complexities in international relations being one example. Almost all of the usage of solar energy for electricity in Nigeria still consists of roof-mounted solar photovoltaic (PV) modules being deployed in grid-complementing and standalone nanogrid systems. Considering that Nigeria, as well as most other African nations, is still trying to achieve electricity adequacy, the importance of promoting alternative applications for harnessing solar energy for electricity generation on much larger scales is evident. Yet, massive solar stations tend to result in massive land use. In this paper, a paradigm for harnessing solar power on dams, rivers, and lakes, its applicability, potential benefits, and expected challenges for Sub-Saharan Africa, with a focus on Nigeria are investigated and proposed.