Submit your papersSubmit Now
For Enquiries: [email protected]
IIARD LogoIIARD

Assessing the Feasibility of Solar – Powered Community Microgrids for Rural Electrification in Ahaoda West, Rivers State, Nigeria

Kio, O. O., Udofot, S. U., Sigalo, F. B., Kio, M., Oghuvwu, B. E

Abstract

Rural electrification remains a critical challenge in Nigeria, with communities such as Ahoada West in Rivers State experiencing acute energy poverty despite the region’s oil wealth. This study assessed the technical and economic feasibility of solar-powered community microgrids for rural electrification. A mixed-methods approach was adopted, combining solar irradiance measurements at Akinima and Mbiama with household surveys (n = 200). Results showed significant seasonal variation: dry-season irradiance averaged 5.5 kWh/m2/day with 8.2 sunshine hours and 2.5% efficiency derating, while rainy-season irradiance fell to 4.5 kWh/m2/day with 7.2 sunshine hours and 5.5% derating. Community readiness for solar adoption was high (M = 3.6, SD = 0.80, on a 4-point scale). The study concludes that solar microgrids are technically feasible in Ahoada West but require integrated battery storage to address seasonal fluctuations. Recommendations include investment in storage, community participation in design, and supportive policy frameworks.

Keywords

Solar energy; microgrids; rural electrification; energy poverty; feasibility analysis; Nigeria; seasonal variation`

References

Adewole, O. A., Akinmoladun, A. A., & Omoniyi, W. L. (2026). Assessment of Climate Change Impact on Housing Quality in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria. Bala, E.J., Kemka, O., Abubakar, A. (2021). Solar PV Electrification in Nigeria: Current Status and Affordability Analysis. Journal of Power and Energy Engineering, 9(5), DOI: 10.4236/jpee.2021.95001 Bhattacharyya, S. C. (2012). Energy access programmes and sustainable development: A critical review and analysis. Energy for sustainable development, 16(3), 260-271. Bhattacharyya, S. C., & Palit, D. (2016). Mini-grid based off-grid electrification to enhance electricity access in developing countries: What policies may be required? Energy Policy, 94, 166-178. Blanchard, R.E., Egberibine, P.K., Edet, J.U., & Wilson, J. (2024). Comparative assessment of concentrated solar power and photovoltaic for power generation and green hydrogen potential in West Africa: A case study on Nigeria. International Journal of Energy Economics and Policy, 14(2), 676-686 Eberhard, A. G., & Katharine, K. L. (2018). Kenya's lessons from two decades of experience with independent power producers. Utilities Policy, 52 (2), 37-49 Koutoudjian, G., Diniz, L., Cespedes, R., & UNDP, V. G. (2021). About IRENA The International Renewable Energy Agency is an intergovernmental organisation that supports countries in their transition to a sustainable energy future, and serves as the principal platform for international co-operation, a centre of excellence, and a repository of policy, technology, resource and financial knowledge on renewable energy. IRENA promotes the. IRENA promotes the, 24. Hussaini, A., & Matazu, B. M. (2023). An overview of key improvements by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency for the modernisation of Meteorological Services in Nigeria. Science World Journal, 18(1), 152-157. Nwofe, P. A. (2014). Potentials of renewable energy in a developing economy. International Journal of Advanced Research, 2(9), 334-342. Ogunlade, A. A. (2008). Comparative cost – benefit analysis of renewable resources for rural community development in Nigeria. Master Thesis/ dissertation, North West University, South Africa. Olaniyan, A. (2024). Rural electrification in Nigeria: A review of impacts and effects of adopting reuse solar generation system. PMC/Heliyon (or similar). (Impacts and feasibility of solar reuse systems for rural access). Oyedepo, S.O., Babalola, O.P., Nwanya, S.C., Kilanko, O., Leramo, R.O., Aworinde, A.K. (2018). Towards a Sustainable Electricity Supply in Nigeria: The Role of Decentralized Renewable Energy System. European Journal of Sustainable Development Research, 2(2), 40 – 49 Rogers, E. M., Singhal, A., & Quinlan, M. M. (2014). Diffusion of innovations. In An integrated approach to communication theory and research (pp. 432-448). Ukoima, K. N., & Owolabi, A. B. (2023). Analysis of a Solar Hybrid Electricity Generation System for a Rural Community in Rivers State, Nigeria. Energies, 16(8), 3431 Ukoima, K. N. (2025). Design and performance analysis of a solar photovoltaic system for a rural community in Rivers State, Nigeria. Scientific Reports, 15(1), 33783. World Bank ,(2022). Nigeria to Expand Access to Clean Energy for 17.5 Million People, World Bank to Fund 1,000 Mini Solar Power Grids in Nigeria. World Bank Press Release.

More Articles from INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENGINEERING AND MODERN TECHNOLOGY