Grid Integration of Renewable Energy for Reliable and Efficient Power Supply in Nigeria
Ubong J. Joseph
Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Rivers State University, Port Harcourt, Nigeria.
Emmanuel C. Obuah
Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Rivers State University, Port Harcourt, Nigeria.
Kingsley B. Clement
Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, University of Uyo, Uyo, Nigeria.
Wisdom A. Ekwere *
Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, University of Uyo, Uyo, Nigeria.
Imo S. Akang
Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, University of Uyo, Uyo, Nigeria.
Emmanuel U. Edet
Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, University of Uyo, Uyo, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
This research investigates the integration of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind into Nigeria’s power grid. The main objective is to develop a simulation model that examines how renewable energy systems affect power reliability and supply efficiency under different load and generation conditions using MATLAB. The simulation setup includes solar photovoltaic arrays and wind turbines connected to the grid through inverter systems and controlled using standard power system techniques. Changes in solar radiation and wind speed are introduced during the simulation to reflect real-life variations in renewable energy generation. The results show that, despite their variable nature, solar and wind systems can support the grid effectively when combined with proper control, forecasting, and storage technologies. The study demonstrates that integrating renewable energy into the grid can reduce power shortages, improve electricity access, support a more stable and reliable power supply as well as contribute to sustainable development goals by promoting the use of renewable energy in Nigeria.
Keywords: Renewable energy, solar power, wind energy, grid integration, power reliability, energy access, smart grid, MATLAB/SIMULINK