Scaling Utility-Enabled Distributed Energy Resources in Nigeria

Investment Rating - The report indicates a significant investment opportunity in utility-enabled distributed energy resources (DERs) in Nigeria, estimating nearly $14 billion across the country over the next decade [16][23][49]. Core Insights - Utility-enabled DERs can address persistent challenges of power availability and reliability in Nigeria, with a market opportunity exceeding 20 GW over the next 10 years [16][21]. - Distribution companies (DisCos) can increase their revenue by an average of over ₦70 billion (~$50 million) annually through new DER assets [16]. - The report emphasizes the need for collaboration among DisCos, developers, and stakeholders to accelerate project deployment and meet strategic goals [24][29]. Summary by Sections Executive Summary - The roadmap outlines the potential for utility-enabled DERs to enhance DisCo profitability, improve infrastructure, and reduce customer costs while addressing supply gaps [17][18]. - It highlights the regulatory support for commercial viability, allowing project developers to charge cost-reflective tariffs [16][18]. Introduction - Nigeria's power sector faces significant challenges, including high ATC&C losses and low metering rates, which hinder DisCos' ability to serve customers effectively [27][35]. - The report identifies the need for DERs as a solution to improve operational efficiency and financial performance for DisCos [28][31]. The Role of Utility-Enabled DERs - Utility-enabled DERs can help DisCos increase access to electricity, reduce system losses, and improve revenue collection [43]. - The report outlines the benefits of DERs for various stakeholders, including increased energy sales for DisCos and reduced energy costs for customers [45][51]. Market Potential - The report estimates a DER market opportunity of 1 GW annually for five DisCos, translating to about 2 GW per year across Nigeria over the next decade [28][30]. - It projects that deploying DER capacity can close the supply gap and presents an investment opportunity of over $8 billion for the five DisCos analyzed [23][24]. Implementation Strategies - The roadmap provides a checklist of priority actions for DisCos to enable DER deployment, emphasizing the importance of forming cross-functional teams and developing DER strategies [26][25]. - It also discusses the need for regulatory compliance and the establishment of a system for customer engagement [26][48].