Solar energy potentials in different climatic zones of Nigeria

Abstract

Solar energy is the cleanest and most abundant renewable energy available in Nigeria, a tropical nation. It is also a viable tool for solving most of our problems ranging from desertification to climate change. This study investigated the solar energy potentials at different climatic zones of Nigeria using four representative locations. Surface temperature and solar radiation measurements retrieved from the study locations were analyzed to obtain the potential power output from solar power systems. It was shown that the monthly mean output power from the solar power systems is affected by seasonal changes for the four locations under study. We also concluded that the increasing temperature is a critical factor limiting the PV production in Nigeria.