West Africa faces deepening electricity deficit despite renewable potential

Globally, 655 million people still lack electricity, with Sub‑Saharan Africa accounting for over 560 million of those lacking access, according to the 2023‑2024 SDG 7 Energy Progress Report. The report warns that without accelerated action the region will miss the 2030 universal‑access target.

At a recent ECOWAS Parliament meeting in Dakar, Senegal, officials highlighted the bloc’s abundant renewable resources – solar, wind, hydro and bioenergy – as a way to close the persistent electricity gap in rural communities. Delegates called for greater investment in mini‑grids and off‑grid systems, stressing that clean energy can boost agriculture, small‑business activity and health services.

Nigeria’s Power Minister Joseph Tegbe told the Lagos Chamber of Commerce that less than half of the country’s 13,000 MW installed capacity actually reaches consumers. Frequent grid collapses in late 2025 and early 2026 underscored systemic weaknesses. The government points to reforms under the 2023 Electricity Act, state‑level regulation, installation of 82 new transformers (adding over 8,500 MVA), and a $1.16 billion digitalisation programme now 69 % complete as steps toward reliable, affordable power.