How can Niger balance its energy mix?

This transformative project, funded by the World Bank through the International Development Association (IDA), will enable Niger to better balance its energy mix, which is currently largely dominated by thermal energy. This initiative is particularly crucial for a country that frequently faces climatic shocks.

Why is Niger a solar energy hub?

Niger was one of the first countries across the world to consider renewable energy technologies as a solution to its energy needs. This dates back to the 1960s, when Niger set up the Solar Energy Office (Office de l’Energie Solaire – ONERSOL), later renamed the National Solar Energy Centre (Centre National d'Énergie Solaire – CNES).

Who owns NIGELEC?

Established in 1968, NIGELEC is major-ity owned by the government of Niger. Petroleum products (70%) dominate Niger’s energy generation mix, followed by coal (28%) and solar (2%). As shown in table 1, the national installed capacity of less than 175 MW includes the NIGELEC 83 MW thermal power station.

Are there any off-grid solar energy systems in Niger?

There is considerable experience of off-grid PV electrification, water pumping and solar water heating systems in Niger. Each of these will be explored below. The main decentralised renewable energy system being promoted in Niger for rural electricity is solar PV.

Where is solar energy used in Niger?

Niamey and Zinder, located at lower latitudes, show less variability across the year, hence making them excellent locations for harnessing solar energy. There is a long history of solar energy use in Niger. This began in the mid-1960s when the Centre National d'Énergie Solaire (National Solar Energy Centre; CNES) was established.

Are off-grid solar water heaters the future of Niger's energy mix?

These have a specific mandate for different sectors (industrial, tourism and households) to install solar water heaters. The RRA has highlighted that the contri-bution of off-grid renewable systems to the energy mix in Niger is growing.