International Journal of Sustainable Energy and Environmental Research 2312-5764 2306-6253 10.18488/journal.13/2015.4.2/13.2.49.63 International Journal of Sustainable Energy and Environmental Research Renewable Sources of Energy for Economic Development in Nigeria International Journal of Sustainable Energy and Environmental Research International Journal of Sustainable Energy and Environmental Research 06-2015 2015 06-2015 06-2015 4 2 49 63 30 Nov 30 Nov It has become widely acknowledged that the rising environmental and economic cost associated with fossil fuel energy has made Renewable Energy (RE) a basic requirement for the development of Nigeria’s economy. The paper focuses on ways of generating electricity with renewable source of energy for economic development in Nigeria. Specifically, the Nigeria’s energy scene, renewable energy potentials and barriers, as well as various national energy policies were analyzed and areas that require attention to achieve sustainable provision of RE were highlighted. Overall, achieving sustainable development in Nigeria lies in addressing the imminent energy crisis facing the country. While fossil fuels have increased in use and declined in supply, excessive usage of fuel wood is already creating environmental problems especially in the Sahel area. But RE brings together climate protection, poverty reduction, and technological progress.