Abuja: The Social Democratic Party (SDP) presidential candidate, Prince Adewole Adebayo, has shared his ambitious plan to revolutionize Nigeria’s power sector, focusing on decentralized generation, renewable energy, and local manufacturing to achieve a 75,000MW electricity generation target.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Adebayo elaborated on his strategy during the Personality Interview Series, outlining a multi-faceted approach that combines solar, gas, and hydroelectric power. He emphasized the importance of rehabilitating existing hydro stations to enhance electricity generation and support large-scale industrialization in Nigeria.
Adebayo argued that Nigeria’s electricity needs have surpassed previous generation targets, necessitating long-term planning to boost economic development. He asserted that any presidential candidate not proposing at least 50,000 megawatts is outdated, as the country has moved beyond the need for just 10,000 or 20,000 megawatts.
The SDP presidential candidate highlighted the need to diversify Nigeria’s energy mix, leveraging the country’s gas resources alongside renewable energy sources. He proposed greater utilization of solar power, particularly in decentralized systems serving communities and economic clusters, to complement the national grid.
Adebayo’s plan includes the use of mini-grids and embedded generation to bring electricity closer to consumers and support economic activities in areas inadequately served by the national grid. He stressed the importance of green energy, such as solar, and the significant role of gas, given Nigeria’s abundant reserves.
Rehabilitation of existing hydroelectric facilities is also a key element of Adebayo’s strategy, aimed at recovering generation capacity from already available infrastructure. He advocated for maximizing existing energy assets while investing in new generation capacity.
Local manufacturing, particularly in the renewable energy sector, is another crucial component of Adebayo’s strategy. By producing solar equipment and other energy components locally, he aims to reduce import dependence and create jobs.
Adebayo linked electricity policy directly to Nigeria’s industrialization strategy, focusing on manufacturing, agriculture, and small businesses. He argued that reliable electricity would lower production costs by reducing reliance on alternative power sources.
If elected, Adebayo plans to treat electricity as an economic development issue rather than merely a utility challenge. His proposed generation expansion will be supported by reforms to make the electricity market more efficient and consumer-responsive.
Criticizing aspects of the current electricity market, Adebayo called for structural reforms alongside increased generation. He stressed that expanding generation without addressing transmission, distribution, and market inefficiencies would limit the benefits of additional electricity.
The SDP presidential candidate emphasized a coordinated approach covering generation, transmission, distribution, and energy procurement to ensure that increased generation results in reliable and affordable electricity for households and businesses.
Adebayo contended that Nigeria has the resources to build a larger electricity system but requires deliberate planning to harness them. He highlighted the importance of combining natural resources with renewable energy and improved infrastructure.
The strategy will be part of a broader economic program aimed at increasing productivity, creating jobs, and improving living standards. Adebayo underscored that addressing Nigeria’s electricity deficit is crucial for sustained economic growth and providing businesses with dependable power.
In conclusion, Adebayo pledged to pursue a diversified and decentralized energy system capable of supporting Nigeria’s future economic needs.