A comprehensive study led by a researcher from Near East University has shed light on the multifaceted energy crisis in Nigeria and the untapped potential of renewable energy sources in the country. This research directly contributes to the global goals of ensuring access to affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy, taking urgent action to combat climate change, and building effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions.
The study identifies a range of factors contributing to Nigeria’s energy crisis, including funding issues, energy loss, inadequate budgetary provisions, corruption, leadership crisis, poor maintenance, lack of technical skills, infrastructural decay, gas shortages, tariff discrepancies, low energy investments, power generation problems, and macroeconomic instability. These challenges have hindered the effective utilization of Nigeria’s abundant clean and unclean energy resources.
Nigeria, endowed with renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, biomass, hydro, and geothermal, presents significant opportunities for addressing the electricity shortfall. The study recommends harnessing these renewable resources to meet the country’s electricity needs. By 2030, Nigeria aims to generate 36% of its electricity from renewable sources, a target that necessitates substantial investment in clean energy technologies and the creation of an enabling environment for private sector participation.
The policy suggestions include diversifying the energy mix to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, increasing investments in power infrastructure, enhancing the regulatory framework, and promoting energy-efficient practices. Furthermore, the study advocates for public-private partnerships to fund essential energy projects, acknowledging that Nigeria may require substantial financial investments to maintain a reliable power supply.
Establishing strong institutions to combat corruption, capacity building within the energy sector, and promoting a culture of maintenance are also crucial. These measures, along with consumer education, efficient billing systems, and rural electrification, are vital for achieving sustainable development in Nigeria.
In conclusion, the research underscores the need for comprehensive policies and strategies to address Nigeria’s energy crisis. By focusing on renewable energy and tackling the underlying issues, Nigeria can progress towards sustainable energy for all, climate action, and the establishment of strong, accountable institutions, contributing to the broader global sustainability agenda.
For further details, access the original paper from the publisher’s link:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1364032123006512#sec6
