Decentralized Energy Access: A Catalyst for Inclusive Development in Nigeria

This study explores the influence of decentralized energy access on inclusive development in Nigeria. The study is guided by three (3) research objectives, questions, and hypotheses. 40.6 million people from urban and rural households, and SME owners from the six (6) geopolitical zones in Nigeria make up the population of the study. Taro Yamane was used to determine the population sample size of 400 people who are the respondents of the study. A structured questionnaire was used to solicit data from the study respondents. Of the 400 questionnaires distributed, 394 were retrieved and used for the study. The Spearman Rank Correlation Coefficient statistical tool was used to test the hypothesis. Findings from the study indicated that a significant positive relationship exists between decentralized energy access and inclusive development in Nigeria. The study concluded that decentralized energy systems such as mini-grids, solar household systems, and other renewable energy solutions address the energy poverty that impedes social and economic development by increasing access to reasonably priced, dependable, and sustainable electricity. This study recommended that the government, communities, and business owners in Nigeria should adopt various forms of decentralized energy systems for inclusive development.