Access to Low-Carbon Energy Technologies in Nigeria: Status and Challenges

Nigeria possesses vast low-carbon energy resources, such as solar, wind, biomass, hydro, and geothermal power. Despite this, the country struggles to ensure a stable electricity supply and widespread energy access. The adoption of low-carbon energy technologies is widely recognized as essential for economic growth and social progress. This study explores the enabling and limiting factors affecting the adoption of low-carbon energy technologies in Nigeria, the variety of renewable energy sources available, and the policies and regulations aimed at ensuring sustainable energy access. By reviewing relevant literature (2018–2025) on renewable and/or low-carbon energy technologies, with a focus on Nigeria, the study identifies key influences on sustainable energy access. The findings reveal that multiple interconnected factors, such as policy and regulatory frameworks, grid expansion costs, economic barriers, peer-to-peer energy trading, investment risks, pricing models, socio-cultural dynamics, technical limitations, poor maintenance, and a lack of skilled personnel, play a crucial role. The paper concludes by stressing the necessity of tailored incentives for specific low-carbon energy pathways and advocates pro-poor strategies to reduce inequality and combat energy poverty in Nigeria.