Nigeria aims to increase its electricity capacity by 4,000 MW by the end of 2026
A strategic response to the national energy crisis
Faced with chronic deficiencies in the power grid, the Nigerian government intends to accelerate the modernization of its energy infrastructure. The country plans toadd 4,000 megawatts (MW) to its installed electrical capacity by the end of next year, announced Adebayo Adelabu, Minister of Energy, in a media address on April 21.
A strategy based on fast-track contracts and international partnerships
To achieve this goal, the government is counting on therapid award of engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contracts, targeting technically and financially sound operators. The first phase of the plan calls for the addition of 2,000 MW this year, before expanding to a further 4,000 MW.
This project is part of the relaunch of the Presidential Power Initiative (PPI), an ambitious program launched in partnership with Germany and Siemens. Initially launched in 2018, the PPI aims to gradually increase the country’s operational capacity from 7,000 MW to 11,000 MW, and eventually 25,000 MW, although it has experienced several delays since its implementation.
Reduce diesel dependency and boost growth
By increasing the capacity of the power grid, Nigeria hopes to meet the growing demand of its economy, while reducing companies’ costly and polluting dependence on diesel generators. The initiative should also improve supply reliability for industrial zones, academic institutions, utilities and businesses, a key lever for boosting economic activity.
