The Lagos renewable energy transformation project aimed to address the city's significant electricity deficit and create a cleaner, more secure energy future by leveraging renewable energy solutions and enhancing energy efficiency.  

Commissioned by C40 Cities, Arup conducted an extensive study reviewing Lagos's current energy supply and demand, its projected future needs, and the potential of various renewable technologies.

We recommended a suite of measures, including localised solar power generation, energy efficiency improvements, and battery storage solutions. We also proposed a collaborative renewable energy roadmap involving local and international stakeholders to ensure comprehensive and practical implementation to support the energy transition. 

Home to 18 million residents, Lagos has only 850-1,000 MW of installed capacity serving the national grid, which meets just 10% of the city's electricity demand. The remaining demand is being met by fossil-fuel generators, firewood, or individual renewable energy systems – such as solar panels and biofuel. Electrical demand is expected to grow from 22 terrawatt hours (TWh) to 47 TWh by 2050 in a business-as-usual scenario. However, implementing energy efficiency measures can reduce this demand growth to 32-38 TWh by 2050.

The study estimated a total local renewable energy generation potential of 25 GW by 2050 – primarily from solar power. Solar photovoltaics combined with battery storage could meet 66% of Lagos's projected 2050 energy demand without significant infrastructure upgrades.