Mapping dynamics of low-carbon energy innovation for small hydropower technology in Nigeria

The urgent need for clean innovative energy systems is widely recognized amidst increasing concerns over energy insecurity, climate change and other environmental impacts of a carbon-constrained economy. Several renewable energy technologies such as small hydropower (SHP) are poised to play a critical role in the transition to a low-carbon future in Nigeria. The technically exploitable small hydro capability in Nigeria is high but underutilized in spite of the recent power sector reform of the government. The main objective of this paper is to trace the evolution of small hydropower and determine what component of the interactive learning mechanisms would result in the most significant outcome. The paper also maps out the networks of actors and linkages among those involved in the development and deployment of SHP technology in Nigeria. The study assesses the innovation process of the key stakeholders on models of sustainable SHP in the country. In the final assessment, the study identifies four models with firm-driven and a hybrid of policy and donor-driven models producing the most significant outcome. The findings of this study suggest that SHP could play an important role in remote off-grid communities as well as grid-based power generation. However, barriers such as low level of technological capability, lack of up-to-date sound technical and financial analysis and low investment have hindered its deployment. This paper concludes by outlining several policy priorities that would entrench sustainable SHP for multiple societal and economic development objectives in Nigeria.