Hydro-based, Renewable Hybrid Energy Sytem for Rural/Remote Electrification in Nigeria

Today, there is a tendency to forget that there are still many locations in the world which do not have an electrical connection to a central utility network. Furthermore, in many places due to remoteness and cost, it is unlikely that a main grid connection will ever be established. However the need for power still exists. Nigeria is abundantly blessed with all major sources of energy; solar power, wind, geothermal and bio-energy. But my country lacks the expertise to control and utilize these sources of power. Many remote areas of developing countries like Nigeria lacked supply of conventional energy sources (oil, grid extension) due to cost and poor infrastructure. However, many of them are also fortunate enough to live in the proximity to potential indigenous renewable energy sources such as hydro, solar, and wind. This paper presents the concept of using more than one renewable energy sources/technologies in solving the energy problem of rural or remote centers, especially in a region with renewable energy potential.