Framework for implementing hybrid floating solar-hydropower systems in Nigeria for Sub-Saharan Africa’s energy transition

Sub-Saharan Africa faces severe energy poverty, with approximately 570 million people lacking electricity access despite abundant renewable energy resources. This paradox is particularly evident in Nigeria, where only about 55.4% of its over 200 million population has reliable electricity access, despite significant solar and hydropower potential. Traditional renewable energy implementation approaches often face challenges including land-use constraints, grid integration issues, and intermittent generation. This research developed a conceptual and theoretical framework to accelerate the uptake of hybrid floating solar-hydropower technology in Sub-Saharan Africa, using Nigeria as a case study. The investigation integrated floating solar panels with existing hydropower infrastructure to address land-use constraints while enhancing renewable energy generation capacity. The study employed a sequential explanatory mixed-methods approach, combining questionnaire surveys of 101 energy sector stakeholders and in-depth interviews with six experts. Technical potential and economic feasibility analyses were conducted using the National Renewable Energy Laboratory’s (NREL) System Advisor Model (SAM) for nine selected hydropower reservoirs, with subsequent framework validation through expert review, comparative analysis of implementation frameworks and case study application. Results revealed substantial technical potential, with 1% reservoir area coverage capable of adding 2,606 MW capacity and additional annual energy production of 4,566 GWh (representing an additional 126% of current hydropower capacity, and an additional 89% of annual current hydropower energy production). Economic analysis demonstrated strong viability with Levelized Cost of Energy ranging from 5.32-6.82 cents/kWh, positive Net Present Values ($630,708-$793,569), and 13.04% Internal Rate of Return. Critical implementation barriers identified included insufficient funding (85.2% of participants), limited technical expertise (63.3%), and regulatory uncertainty (76.2%). The study concluded that hybrid floating solar-hydropower technology presents a viable solution for accelerating renewable energy adoption in Sub-Saharan Africa, requiring integrated policy frameworks, innovative financing mechanisms, and robust stakeholder engagement strategies. The developed framework provides a practical roadmap for implementation that addresses technical, economic, social, and environmental dimensions while considering the unique challenges of developing economies of sub-Saharan Africa.

Citation

Ingo, T.I. (2025) Framework for implementing hybrid floating solar-hydropower systems in Nigeria for Sub-Saharan Africa’s energy transition. University of Wolverhampton. https://wlv.openrepository.com/handle/2436/626142

Publisher

University of Wolverhampton

URI

https://wlv.openrepository.com/handle/2436/626142

Type

Thesis or dissertation

Language

en

Description

A thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements of the University of Wolverhampton for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy.

Collections

Theses and Dissertations