IMPROVEMENT OF POWER SUPPLY IN SEMI-URBAN NIGERIAN INSTITUTIONS USING MULTI-DISTRIBUTED GENERATION SYSTEM

Power supply in semi-urban Nigerian institutions was characterized by unreliability, frequent outages, and heavy dependence on diesel generators, which undermined operational efficiency and increased energy costs. This necessitated the exploration of sustainable and reliable alternatives. This study aimed to analyse the current state of power supply in selected semi-urban Nigerian institutions, evaluate the components and performance of multi-distributed generation systems, and propose an optimised model suitable for such settings.A mixed-methods approach was adopted, combining quantitative analysis of energy demand and system performance with qualitative data obtained from users and facility managers. System design and simulation techniques were employed to assess the proposed model. The findings of the showed that the proposed multi-distributed generation system achieved 96% energy availability, compared to 60% reliability of existing grid and generator-based systems. Solar energy contributed 68% of the supply, while battery and diesel backup accounted for 20% and 12%, respectively, indicating significant fuel independence. The system demonstrated a reduced monthly cost of approximately ₦1,200,000 compared to ₦1,800,000 under the existing system. Improved electricity reliability also enhanced institutional productivity, particularly in ICT integration, academic activities, and service delivery. The implication of the findings highlighted the economic and operational viability of integrated energy systems and their potential to reduce fuel dependency while improving institutional performance. The study concluded that multi-distributed generation systems provided a feasible, reliable, and sustainable solution to power supply challenges in semi-urban Nigerian institutions.