Suitability and Socio-Economic Analysis of Hybrid Renewable Energy Systems Deployment in Rural Areas of Abuja, Nigeria

Access to sustainable and reliable electricity remains a pressing challenge in rural areas of Abuja, Nigeria, where grid extension is economically unviable and energy poverty persists. Hybrid Renewable Energy Systems (HRES), combining multiple renewable sources such as solar and wind with backup systems like biogas generators or batteries, have emerged as a viable solution to bridge this gap. This study conducts a geospatial suitability analysis to identify optimal locations for deploying HRES in rural communities of Abuja using Geographic Information Systems (GIS). By integrating environmental, topographic, and socio-economic criteria such as solar irradiance, wind speed, and land use, the study aims to guide stakeholders in prioritizing investment and planning. Data were sourced from satellite imagery, meteorological datasets, and national geographic databases, and analyzed using weighted overlay techniques suitability analysis in ArcGIS. This study successfully conducted a suitability analysis combining solar, wind, and biomass resource layers to identify Bwari (including Kurudu, Shere, Igu, and Kawu), Gwagwalada (Gawu), and Abuja Municipal Area Council (Karu, Orozo, Garki 1, and Nyanya) as the most promising locations for hybrid energy system deployment. The socio-economic analysis shows that energy access in rural FCT is limited, with 43.5% of respondents having limited access to electricity for 0-2 hours daily. Primary energy sources are traditional and polluting, with 35% using firewood, 32% relying on diesel generators, and 1.4% using solar energy. Most respondents are aware of renewable energy, with 86.4% believing it could benefit their community. Biomass resources, such as poultry waste and agricultural residues, are prevalent, with 91.2% willing to contribute financially.