Nigeria faces significant challenges in expanding reliable electricity access, particularly in off-grid remote regions where grid extension remains economically and technically constrained. This thesis investigates the opportunities and challenges of developing small-scale geothermal energy in Nigeria by integrating three research core areas: geothermal resource assessment, techno-economic modelling and social acceptance studies to provide the first holistic evaluation of geothermal energy for local energy access in Nigeria.

Chapter 2 develops a comprehensive geothermal suitability model using the MCDA framework, which incorporates 48 criteria from remote sensing, geological, geophysical, environmental baseline studies, well log and geochemical datasets. The sensitivity analysis confirms the robustness of the result, justifying the selection of a community in Ebonyi State for a detailed case study.

Chapter 3 analyses the techno-economic performance of the integration of a small-scale geothermal energy into the PV mini-grid at Eka Awoke, Ikwo, Ebonyi State, Nigeria, using a linear programming model. Results obtained show that geothermal integration offers a reliable, low-cost and low-carbon emission option for rural energy supply, outperforming solar-plus-diesel configurations in reliable metrics and levelized cost of energy.

Chapter 4 examines the social acceptance of geothermal energy using a citizen jury and survey method, and a survey of 20 jurors in Eka Awoke. Limited knowledge, uncertainty about risk involved, and low institutional trust are key barriers to the social acceptance of geothermal energy. Structured deliberations and expert presentations increased understanding and shifted perception, providing valuable insights into the social factors, such as trust, participation, and communication, that will shape the social acceptance.

  The findings of the three core objectives show that Nigeria holds significant geothermal energy potential for competitive off-grid solutions. The successful deployment will require integrated policy action, including national geothermal resource mapping in Nigeria, community-centred engagement frameworks, transparent decision-making processes and pilot projects combining geothermal energy with solar PV mini-grids.