The African Development Bank (AfDB) said it has released a total sum of N766.7 billion for the advancement of Nigeria’s electricity sector.
The bank’s Director General, Nigeria Country Department, Dr. Abdul Kamara, revealed this at the inaugural/inception workshop on Nigerian Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) feasibility study
He asserted that the fund, derived from its $1 billion Economic Governance and Energy Transition Support Programme, aims to bolster Nigeria’s energy sector, enhancing its capacity to supply electricity to its populace.
Kamara said the second phase which is on track, is part of the bank’s commitment to ensure electricity is accessible to every community in the country.
He said the BESS project, organized by the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), is an important enabler for bringing electricity to an estimated 90 million people who still lack access to it.
His words: “Africa holds almost Sixty Per cent (60%) of the world’s best solar resources, yet accounts for only Two Per cent (2%) of global energy storage capacity. That gap presents a challenge but more importantly, an opportunity. Battery storage is central to unlocking the full potential of our renewable energy resources and delivering stable, reliable power across the continent.”
The Director General of the Bank remarked that battery storage is witnessing remarkable advancements in South Africa, exemplified by a 1,400 Megawatt-hour battery storage initiative enhancing grid stability and solar integration. Meanwhile, Kenya’s Olkaria geothermal-battery hybrid is providing dependable energy to millions.
He emphasised that: “Now, Nigeria is poised to take a bold step in that same direction. In addition, under our One Million Dollar grant Africa Energy Sector Technical Assistance Programme (AESTAP), we’re supporting implementation of the Electricity Act, building state-level electricity markets, and strengthening governance.”
The Managing Director and CEO of TCN, Engineer Dr. Sule Ahmed Abdulaziz, remarked that the feasibility study is not only timely but also offers an opportunity to comprehend the technical and commercial aspects of BSSE. He further said it serves to assess the institutional preparedness, operational protocols, and capacity-building priorities that will be fundamental to its successful implementation.