Power Generation through Renewable Energy Sources: An Analysis of the Legal Barriers and Potentials in Nigeria

Energy insecurity poses a major problem in Africa, more so than anywhere else in the world. One critical concern is the availability, reliability, affordability, and sustainability of electric power supply in many African countries. Policy leaders in Nigeria have therefore identified that renewable energy sources such as photovoltaic solar power generation, wind energy, biomass, and geothermal power could play critical roles in addressing the energy deficits in the country and reducing aggregate levels of green house gas emission by the country. Despite the enormous potentials for renewable energy production in Nigeria, progress has been slow. A number of legal, institutional, and policy constraints continue to impede the development of renewable energy investments in the country. This paper illustrates the various challenges related to renewable energy production in Nigeria.