Wind Power Generation in Sudano-Sahelian Region of Nigeria: a Review

Abstract

Over a couple of years, the world's energy demand has turned to renewable energy sources due to the menace of global warming, while some African countries still depend on fossil fuels despite their harmful effects. Out of approximately 4 trillion (kWh) of renewable energy that is expected to be generated by the year 2030, wind energy is projected to contribute up to 1.1 trillion (kWh). Wind energy studies will be the centre for future renewable engineering efforts, being one of the most likely economic and affordable alternate energy sources. Furthermore, wind resources analysis has also revealed that the Northern part of Nigeria, which occupies almost all the meteorological locations in the Sudano-Sahelian Ecological Zone, possesses enormous potential for harvesting wind energy. This paper involves a systematic review of relevant literature to identify the outcome of various initiatives of researchers at appraising the prospects of electricity production from wind for sustainable development in the region. It was established that the area is blessed with enormous opportunities for harnessing wind for various applications, having possible average wind speeds reaching as high as 8.70 m/s at 10 m above the ground. The region can adequately utilize wind for power generation if the fundamental challenges facing wind energy utilization are addressed. There is a need to systematically model and simulate the system's feasibility before actual implementation to assist in other managerial and technical decisions. Wind energy integration will immensely contribute to providing lasting solutions to the energy situation in the region and the country at large.