Integration of micro-grids into Nigeria’s power system: Challenges, policy perspectives and opportunities for sustainable energy access

Abstract

Nigeria’s electricity sector faces persistent challenges, including insufficient generation capacity, weak transmission and distribution networks, frequent outages, and continued reliance on fossil-fuel-based power. These limitations constrain economic growth and highlight the need for more resilient, decentralized, and sustainable electricity solutions. This paper presents a systematic review of the integration of micro-grids (MGs) into Nigeria’s power system, focusing on reliability improvement, control strategies, renewable energy integration, and implementation barriers. The review synthesizes literature from major academic databases to examine the current state of Nigeria’s power sector, the drivers for MG deployment, global development trends, and the policy framework supporting adoption. It evaluates the role of MGs in enhancing reliability, voltage support, resilience, rural electrification, and energy access, particularly through the use of renewable energy sources, battery energy storage systems, and intelligent energy management. Key technical issues considered include islanding capability, protection coordination, reliability indices, hierarchical control structures, and both grid-connected and standalone operation within the Nigerian context. The paper’s main contribution is a comprehensive engineering-based assessment of the reliability, control, and integration requirements of MGs in Nigeria, while also identifying major policy, financial, and infrastructural constraints. Overall, the review concludes that MGs offer a practical pathway toward a more reliable, sustainable, and inclusive electricity supply system in Nigeria.