A Nigerian United Kingdom-based expert in Renewable Energy and Grid Connection, Engr. Daniel Adesanya, has raised concerns over the root cause and incessant grid collapses in Nigeria.

He emphasised the importance of adopting digital models, smart grids, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to transform the nation’s struggling energy sector and ensure a sustainable energy future.

Adesanya noted that the Nigerian energy sector has been plagued by inefficiencies, outdated infrastructure, and recurring power outages.

“In 2024 alone, the national grid experienced major collapses 12 times, plunging the entire country into blackouts. This is a clear sign that the existing infrastructure is overstretched, underfunded, and outdated,” he said on Monday while speaking with our correspondent.

The urgent need for a paradigm shift to address these systemic challenges was a central point in his remarks.

The expert pointed out that Nigeria’s reliance on a centralised grid system is a major hindrance to progress, adding that many components of the grid, such as transformers, feeders, and transmission cables, have exceeded their intended lifespan, making them prone to frequent failures.

He explained, “The impact goes beyond mere inconvenience. These failures disrupt industries, businesses, and households, stifling economic growth and affecting millions of Nigerians daily.”

He stressed that integrating smart grid technology into the energy sector would revolutionize its operations.

“A smart grid uses advanced sensors, communication networks, and AI to monitor and optimize electricity distribution in real time. It enables proactive maintenance, improves efficiency, and reduces the likelihood of grid failures. The use of smart grids could also play a key role in integrating renewable energy sources like solar and wind into the power system,” he added.

He remarked that Nigeria has an abundance of renewable resources that remain largely untapped.

“With a smart grid, we can efficiently manage the intermittent nature of these resources and reduce our dependency on fossil fuels, paving the way for a more sustainable energy future.”

He said that he AI, it can predict when transformers or cables are likely to fail, allowing timely repairs or replacements. It also forecasts energy demand based on historical data, ensuring the grid is not overloaded and reducing the risk of failures,” he noted.

The expert pointed out that “countries like South Korea, Germany, and the United States have made significant strides in energy reliability and efficiency by adopting smart grids and incorporating renewables. Nigeria can learn from these models and adapt them to its unique challenges.”