Nigeria to build massive 1GW floating solar plant

More details are emerging about plans to build a 1GW floating solar plant in Nigeria.

The project is a partnership between Mainstream Energy Solutions Limited (MESL) and Granville Energy.

It's being hailed as a first-of-its-kind project for Nigeria, aiming to enhance the existing hydroelectric output at Kainji Dam, and supporting the Federal Government’s goal of expanding renewable energy use nationwide.

Granville CEO Tabi Tabi says the first benefit is that you don't need land. 

"Imagine trying to build a 1 GW plant, and how much space it would need."

Tabi adds that constructing such a plant on land would take up valuable space that could be better used for farming, a crucial sector in a country where agriculture plays a vital role.

The other benefit relates to evaporation, explains Tabi.

"Putting solar panels on the water surface reduces evaporation and maintains the water level.

"It's massive. A GW is quite significant, and depending on the communities that can be impacted, we can provide electricity for millions of households," he says.

To listen to Tabi in conversation with CapeTalk's Clarence Ford, click the audio below: