RENEWABLE ENERGY SOURCES FOR SUSTAINABLE OFF-GRID ELECTRIFICATION IN MOKWA LGA CASE STUDY OF EDAN RURAL COMMUNITY

Utilizing renewable energy sources for off-grid electrification has emerged as a viable solution in the pursuit of sustainable development, particularly for rural communities where conventional grid extension is challenging. The focus of this research is Edan, an isolated community within Mokwa Local Government Area (LGA) that faces significant economic and technical hurdles with traditional power options. This study aims to assess whether solar or wind could supply consistent and steady electricity to meet their needs sustainably. The methodology involves assessing renewable resources available within Edan through feasibility analyses on several different off-grid systems. Taking into account the high levels of solar irradiance experienced in the region, photovoltaic (PV) systems appear promising due to suitability; however data surrounding wind speed yield results less favorable than PVs. Hybrid solutions combining both options may offer stability while remaining cost-effective when put forth accordingly. Successful implementation depend heavily upon involvement from local leaders capable of upholding ownership over system maintenance by equipping them with capacity building tools imperative project success at all stages until completion along continuing usage thereafter. By highlighting tailored strategies utilized during remote area electrification processes such as found here provides helpful insights useful applyable elsewhere even across Nigerian borders beyond set limitations encountered en route implementing grassroots endeavors towards cleaner sourced self-sustainable worldwide.