International Journal of Scientific Research and Engineering Development-– Volume 2 Issue 6, Nov- Dec 2019 Available at www.ijsred.com ISSN : 2581-7175 ©IJSRED: All Rights are Reserved Page 183 Off-Grid Small Hydropower for Rural Development in Nigeria Faralu Muhammad Sani*, Abubakar Sani Sambo** *(Department of Mechanical Engineering, Usmanu Danfodio University, Sokoto - Nigeria Email: faralumsani@gmail.com) ** (Department of Mechanical Engineering, Usmanu Danfodio University, Sokoto - Nigeria Email: assambo@gmail.com) ----------------------------------------************************---------------------------------- Abstract: A comprehensive review of small hydropower development in rural areas of Nigeria and off-grid systems was carried out. Major researches conducted at potential sites for small hydropower development and current trends as well as the role of off-grid networks were reported. All the six geo-political regions in Nigeria can possibly be taken care by the works under review. Small hydropower potential showed that 5.13-5000 kW is enough to cater for an average rural community in Nigeria and this is achievable in many identified SHP sites. The creation of decentralized off-grid networks at potential sites would significantly increase electricity accessibility. Very small percentage of identified SHP potential is so far harnessed. Works are still on-going and huge opportunities for investment and electricity generation exist in small hydropower systems regarding rural electrification in Nigeria. Keywords — small, hydropower, rural, Nigeria, off-grid ----------------------------------------************************---------------------------------- I. INTRODUCTION Energy has proven to be a powerful engine for social and economic enhancement. Provision of minimum access to energy services for the larger proportion of a population has become mandatory for countries to develop beyond a subsistence economy. Access to modern energy services is a direct measure of economic growth and poverty alleviation. This argument is supported by many studies that indicate strong correlation between economic growth and energy consumption per capita [1]. Exponential rise in population and developmental growth continue to increase the demands for sustainable energy in most developing nations as is the case with Nigeria. This situation is made worst by lack of infrastructures for providing and extending sufficient energy especially to rural areas. Renewable energy is the solution to energy poverty. Its systems have transformed the ability to deliver secure and affordable electricity to rural communities all over the world. Renewable energy systems surely play a vital role in breaking a cycle of energy poverty that has held back socio- economic progress for hundreds of millions of people [2, 3]. Fagbohun [4] reported that electricity has become a necessary tool for sustainable development of countries around the globe. Substantial number of rural populace in Nigeria (up to 65%) do not have access to electricity and the remaining few ones only witness an epileptic supply. These only constitute a barrier for development in the rural areas. Fagbohun [4] and Zarma [5] agreed that small hydropower (SHP) is a potential renewable energy technology that is very suitable for rural electrification in Nigeria. This finds support in the availability of rivers, streams and run-off waters that have the capacities to generate hydroelectric energy in the majority parts of rural areas. Off-grid SHP systems will mitigate energy deficiency in most parts of rural Nigeria. RESEARCH ARTICLE OPEN ACCESS