Power Punch Beyond Electrification: Productive Use of Energy by doose August 7, 2023 written by doose Energy access is a crucial part of transforming the quality of our well-being. Stable electricity drives industrialization, innovation, and infrastructural development, attracting investment and economic growth and development. The essentiality of energy explains why the government and several development agencies continue to fund varying projects toward advancing energy access for all. However, beyond electrification projects, there is a need to ensure the sustainability of these projects. To sustain the viability and bankability of the projects, incorporating energy for productive usage into electrification programs is critical. The National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) defines productive electricity use as “Any use of electricity that generates income for the user”. The productive use of energy (PUE) involves the application of energy in agricultural, commercial, and industrial activities for economic growth, local resilience, and self-reliance. For example, accelerating access through energy-efficient electric productive appliances and equipment such as grinding machines, solar cold storage, welding machines, and industrial sewing machines can empower communities. In Nigeria, electricity use among poorer households is mainly limited to low-power appliances, such as lightbulbs, radios and phone chargers. As the off-grid sector continues to grow and evolve beyond essential household lighting, utilities strive to stimulate additional demand. As a result, attention is drawn to using PUE systems to boost consumer energy demand. Electricity demand does not grow automatically when there is electrification. Many communities in the global south are poor and require further support to increase their income and productivity and, in turn, afford electricity. Therefore, ensuring that electrification programs directly influence livelihoods and revenue creation is critical for long-term sustainability. Increasing revenue can be accomplished through the productive use of energy. As the uptake of new lines rises due to electricity use during productive activities, value is created, and energy demand is ultimately enhanced. According to the Africa Development Bank, among the 420 million people in Africa between the ages of 15 and 35, 30% are unemployed. PUE systems use can be employed in income generation at various levels. When energy is employed efficiently in entrepreneurial endeavours, businesses are expanded, and as a result, more jobs are created, thus promoting local economic development. Increased income levels lead to improved financial stability, empowering individuals to afford the energy they consume. In 2022, NERC revealed in their Q4 report that DisCos had failed to meet their ATC &C loss targets. As more people become gainfully employed through the adoption of PUE systems or programs, they are better positioned to pay for electricity, and in turn, the DisCos are better off. Productive energy utilization holds enormous potential. As such, championing more programs like the Nigerian Electrification Program (NEP) with a core objective of increasing the productive use of energy in rural areas is crucial. However, numerous challenges must be resolved. For example, a lack of awareness around productive energy use can derail its adoption. Hence, closing the knowledge gaps through awareness creation on PUE opportunities is a much-needed action. Additionally, limited access to cash and technology can hinder the deployment of energy-driven businesses. Governments and organizations can support energy-related entrepreneurial endeavours by creating financing mechanisms via financial incentives, grants, and subsidies, making them accessible to low-income individuals and communities. As Africa gears toward universal energy access by 2030, enhancing energy affordability through productive energy consumption is a transformational strategy to strengthen communities and promote sustainable economic progress. We can remove obstacles and give people the power to determine their futures by considering energy as a resource that is both a consumable and a catalyst for success. Governments, energy companies, and other stakeholders can work together to create a world where energy is available, affordable, and beneficial to everyone while ensuring environmental stewardship. August 7, 2023 0 comment 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Power Punch Biomass: Two Birds with One Stone? by omiesam August 2, 2023 written by omiesam Curbing the environmental impacts of climate change is critical. To ensure a sustainable planet for future generations, curating national climate mitigation efforts to address several socio-economic challenges, such as limited energy access and poor waste management, is imperative. Using Biomass to Generate Energy: The Mechanics Biomass energy is the conversion of waste or plant residuals into more valuable products to generate renewable energy and capture greenhouse gases emitted. This process can also be known as waste valorization. Recycling residual matter combats the release of new carbon because it maintains a close loop. The carbon from biomass is reabsorbed by regrown trees through photosynthesis, unlike fossil fuels that release new carbon into the atmosphere. Amongst the numerous derivatives of biomass, ethanol – a biofuel- is a primary product which can be used as liquid fuels for cooking, pharmaceutical-grade chemical, biodegradable plastics and electricity generation from sugarcane bagasse. In 2021, the Energy Commission of Nigeria unveiled its report on assessing Biofuel and Bio-energy potentials in Nigeria’s Sugar industry. The former Director-General of the ECN highlighted that the detailed biomass resource assessment would identify potential sites for biomass mini-grids throughout the Federation. Although, the communication on the project’s development has been silent since its announcement. Before this announcement, Nigeria launched the National Biofuel Policy and Incentives in 2007, which was to be coordinated by the Ministry of Petroleum and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC). Nonetheless, the Group Managing Director, Mele Kyari, of the NNPC Limited – through a representative – also acknowledged the ‘self-sufficient’ process of sugarcane utilization for energy generation. Why Sugarcane and Cassava? Sugarcane and cassava are abundant in Nigeria. Converting the biomass waste from their respective produce, bridges the electricity gaps and acts as an asset to alter the poor management of urban and industrial wastes, which is a severe public health issue. Nigeria is a festering ground to landfills and is home to six dump sites in Africa, notably Olusosun. On average, a poor waste management site in Nigeria emits about 491,000 tonnes of methane annually. This is notable because, although CO2 emissions are more significant in the atmosphere than methane, CH4 emissions are 25 times more potent at trapping heat in the atmosphere, according to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The increased potency of methane scales the warming power of carbon dioxide in the near term, which is incompatible with Nigeria’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and energy transition goals. However, biofuel adoption has been criticized for two main reasons, poor return on investments (ROIs) and the energy vs. food crisis. On poor ROIs, biofuels in developed countries have recorded low-profit margins because of high startup costs and extended timelines to recoup ROIs. Also, it has been commonly accepted that the cultivation of sugarcane and cassava for biofuel will incentivize farmers to sacrifice other food crops for biofuel, increasing food prices. These consequences are indeed plausible, but an implementable regulatory policy and institutional framework for biomass will resolve these challenges. For example, tax credits for biofuel producers can level market competition with petroleum products to achieve cost parity. In addition, mandating the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission to reflect the Waste-to-Energy framework in grid assessments and tariffs in line with the National Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Policy (NREEEP) which targets 16% renewable energy to the grid by 2030. Biomass is a form of renewable energy that the NNPCL has heralded as an economically viable pathway for electricity generation. Its adoption offers an opportunity for methane reduction in Nigeria’s climate fight and opens an avenue for the nation to have an effective waste management system. August 2, 2023 0 comment 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Power Punch Is Nigeria Returning to Coal Mining? by omiesam July 20, 2023 written by omiesam Nigeria symbolized its commitment to limiting global warming by launching its thirty-seven-year Energy Transition Plan (ETP). The World Bank estimates that about ninety-one million Nigerians still don’t have access to electricity, indicating Nigeria’s energy poverty. As a result, the President announced a return to coal mining to close energy access gaps; however, this response is insufficient for climate change mitigation. The Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) announced the investor call for public bids on the following five blocks in Enugu State: Amasiodo Coal Block; Onyeama Coal Block; Okpara Coal Block; Inyi Coal Block; and AgwasiAzagba Coal Block. Why is Nigeria Returning to Coal Mining? One may interpret Nigeria’s return to coal mining as a sign of a liquidity crisis. The World Bank Poverty Outlook for Nigeria revealed that only 3.7% of the nation’s revenue was unused to service debts. As of June 2023, Nigeria’s inflation records at 22.2%, outpacing wage growth. With these economic indicators, the government does not have the money to fund renewable energy projects to improve electricity access. However, operationalizing coal mining activities is counterproductive to attracting prospective investments to support the ETP’s $410 billion objectives. In the World Energy Transitions Outlook 2023 June editorial, the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) analysis indicated a continuous plummet in investments in Nigeria and other African countries. The IRENA further predicts access to financing to become more constrained due to the unfavourable risk-return profiles of African countries. Nigeria should dredge people-centred approaches such as Just Energy Transition Partnerships (JETPs) to achieve near-zero emissions and bridge the energy access gap. People-Centred Approaches: why JETPs? Just Energy Transition Partnerships is a financing mechanism that combines climate mitigation with energy access. It incorporates blended financing that addresses socioeconomic consequences, enabling Nigeria to achieve low-cost energy access, economic empowerment and industry competitiveness. The objective of a JETP is to allow wealthier nations to fund coal-dependent countries’ transition towards clean energy according to the receiving country’s transition plan. Focusing on increasing house income reduces the dependence on fossil fuels such as charcoal and firewood is preferable to mainstreaming charcoal use to increase energy access. The elasticity between household income and fossil fuels used is apparent. International organizations such as Sustainable Energy For All (SE4All) have endorsed the adoption of JETPs as a technological solution to clean energy transition. On the other hand, JETPs have not been wholly welcomed. Industry experts have objected to its full-scale adoption, concluding JETPs to be narrow. Critics opine that transition designs must be heterogenetic to reflect the diversity of countries’ energy demands, oil and gas dependence and its contribution to GDP, energy level and type of energy needs. Also, the minimal footprint of Africa’s emissions has been emphasized as justification for new fossil fuel energy investments. However, regard must be given to Africa’s minimal past emissions because of its lack of industrialization. The global North has been the most significant emitter because of its heavy fossil-fueled industrial activities. For example, China and the U.S. China is rated the largest emitter of coal-generated carbon, with 10,668 million metric tons emitted in 2020; whilst the U.S. is the primary producer of crude oil. So, if African industries rely on coal and gas for energy generation, Africa’s footprint will inadvertently increase, which is ecologically harmful. Foreign investors have signalled intentions to withdraw support for fossil-reliant projects. While seeking $10 billion annually to fund its ETP, mainstreaming coal use is an investor deterrent and an impediment. Thus, it may leave Nigeria with stranded assets. July 20, 2023 0 comment 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Power Punch Adopting a Circular Economy for Economic Growth and Sustainability in Nigeria by doose July 19, 2023 written by doose The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) defines a circular economy as an economic model focusing on closing material loops through repair, reuse, recycling, refurbishment and remanufacturing of end-of-life products. Estimates suggest that only 8.6% of the world’s economy is circular. Countries like the Netherlands are leading the pack in adopting circularity as an economic style. The Dutch government has an ambitious project to become a country 100% based on a circular economy by 2050. Other countries of note are Japan, China and Chile. Nigeria faces enormous socio-economic challenges. Recent statistics by the World Bank state that 4 in 10 Nigerians live below the poverty line. Nigeria’s National Bureau of Statistics, in 2022, showed that 133 million Nigerians are multi-dimensional poor. This statistic reflects Nigeria’s economic state and further reiterates the need to explore untapped opportunities with the potential to lift Nigeria out of poverty. Over the years, the circular economy has gained prominence, given its potential to offer helpful solutions to pressing environmental and economic challenges. This concept is no silver bullet but is a viable alternative to solving Nigeria’s economic and sustainability challenges. It is also essential to note the global concern about climate change and its adverse environmental and health effects. Since waste is a core contributor to carbon emissions, adopting a circular economy in Nigeria is crucial for managing waste, checking carbon emissions and creating a sustainable economic system. This assertion is supported by a European Environmental Agency report which states that transforming to a circular economy can reduce carbon emissions. Despite the wealth creation potential and sustainable circular economy methods, Nigeria still wallows in the grimes of a linear economy. This linear economic model is centred around a “take-make-dispose approach, where products are used and disposed of to waste sites. The United Nations predicts India, China, and Nigeria will house half the world’s population by 2050. It is no doubt a large population equals humongous amounts of waste. Exploring circular economy principles in critical sectors of the Nigerian economy, such as agriculture, energy, and manufacturing, principally contribute to reducing waste and air pollution and decreasing carbon emissions. For instance, Fossil fuel generator components can be reused or recycled in the energy sector, particularly in renewable energy systems. The energy sector’s circularity opens secondary markets for the refurbishment and trading of used components. Thus creating sustainable businesses and local jobs that address Nigeria’s unemployment problems. Waste can be transformed into bio-products such as fertilizers, energy generation materials and compounds in the agricultural sector. Converting agricultural waste into new products introduces the principles of reuse, repair, and recycling. As a result, local economies can generate an additional income stream and, in the long term, reduce environmental damage. Likewise, in manufacturing, implementing practices like product life extension, eco-friendly packaging, and green recycling can curtail waste generation and create economic opportunities. Efforts are in motion towards achieving a circular economy in Nigeria. Recent efforts include the establishment of Nigeria’s Circular Economy Working Group. (NCEWG) The main objective of this working group is to support the inclusive green growth of the Nigerian economy. However, many more coherent policies, incentives, meaningful action, awareness and innovation are required. Transitioning to a circular economy is just as crucial for Nigeria. Due to the dwindling revenue, the country’s growing energy needs and the geostrategic importance of responding to climate change, this transition could offer solutions. July 19, 2023 0 comment 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Power Punch Financing the ETP by omiesam July 6, 2023 written by omiesam Global warming is a crucial challenge due to its devastating environmental consequences. It has resulted in food insecurity, flooding, population displacement, and desertification. Experts have reported that Nigeria loses $100 billion yearly in GDP to climate change. To curtail these effects, Nigeria established the Energy Transition Plan (ETP). However, sustainably financing Nigeria’s clean energy transition poses a formidable challenge. Implementing the transition to clean energy requires trillions of dollars. The International Renewable Energy Agency estimates investment needs of $35 trillion by 2030 for a successful energy transition. In Nigeria’s case, the federal government is cash-crunched to execute the transition successfully. Nigeria’s energy transition office disclosed a budget of $410 billion to finance and implement the ETP, which translates to $10 billion annually. So far, the federal government has secured only $3.6 from its $10 billion yearly financial requirement to achieve its targets of net-zero emissions by 2060. The flow of private equity is needed to offset this capital deficit of $6.4 billion. The ETP’s pioneering nature creates a profitable market to attract investors, which Nigeria should leverage to advance its progress towards the global 1.50C target. Nigeria may adopt the below-listed viable finance models to ensure an effective transition to clean energy. Blended Financing: Netting Private Investors To keep the 1.50C trajectory reachable, nuanced systemic financing models must occur in less than 37 years. Achieving this requires significant private equity with an increased reliance on debt and equity finance. Experts have heralded blended financing as a development finance model that pulled in more significant private capital in Sub-Saharan Africa, attracting 61% of global concessional funding in 2020. Blended finance is a mix of commercial finance – loans from development banks or financial institutions – and catalytic funds – grants from public organizations, e.g. philanthropic organizations, to increase private investment in sustainable development. The federal government’s current economic strategy includes several fiscal incentives, such as tax holidays for independent power generation companies and sector regulatory reforms. These reforms have helped lower the cost of capital and attracted private investment in renewable power to an extent, but they have not been sufficient. Thus, the government should leverage the role of blended finance to augment investment. Catalytic funds from public resources and international aid donor funds are limitless, making blended finance a critical tool. Development partners and private equity funds can aggregate resources to invest in a series of development projects, from early to operating stage projects, that mitigate the impacts of climate change. The blended finance model creates diversified portfolios for emerging market private sector investors to spread risk and create better-performing portfolios. For example, inflation-linked asset classes such as infrastructure act as a risk buffer and provide a viable alternative to traditional government-backed securities, which have been unsuccessful. However, as with any foreign direct investment, currency, policy and scale risks pose investor barriers. This is why Nigeria must undertake and publish a sound report focused on aggregating and harmonizing the nation’s framework for investment to attract investors, developers and stakeholders’ confidence. The blended finance model can mitigate the risks of pioneering renewable energy projects, ease the transition to cleaner energy and support Nigeria’s off-grid infrastructural plans, such as the 13GW of off-grid solar PV capacity by 2030. Nigeria needs an influx of private equity to sustain its commitment towards limiting global warming to 1.50C. Adopting flexible financial models, such as blended financing, is one way the government can create an enabling environment to attract domestic and foreign investors. July 6, 2023 0 comment 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Power Punch Implications of the Looming Electricity Tariff Increase by doose June 30, 2023 written by doose Electricity tariffs are the rate at which electricity is sold to a consumer. These tariffs are determined by considering total production costs from generation plants to wholesale generation, transmission, distribution, metering and billing and finally to the consumer. Nigerian electricity tariffs are typically regulated by the government or The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to ensure fairness, sustainability, and the financial viability of the power sector. Electricity is the bedrock of civilization, providing energy for our homes, businesses, and industries. However, the accessibility and affordability of electricity have always posed significant concerns for both consumers and policymakers. One of the critical factors influencing the electricity tariff set by utility companies is the electricity subsidy which the government pays to upset a part of this tariff costs making it affordable to its citizens. However, recently the government has expressed its inability to continue subsidizing electricity due to severe financial and revenue constraints. As a result, Distribution Companies (DisCos) have proposed a 40% electricity tariff increase from July 1, 2023. Other contributing factors to this proposed increase are the fuel subsidy removal and the unified exchange rate. The electricity tariff increase has become a subject of intense debate and discussion. Therefore, there is a need to outline the possible implications of this proposed tariff increase in varying sectors. Some of the impacts are as follows: Impact on Consumers: An increase in electricity rates directly affects the consumer’s pockets, as higher rates translate into increased monthly bills, especially with already skyrocketed bills from the fuel subsidy removal. According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), 40.1% of Nigerians are classified as poor. As such, many households in Nigeria, especially those in rural areas, are low-income households with limited disposable income, and the burden of higher electricity costs can be particularly challenging. In addition, the increased financial strain on consumers’ income can lead to reduced discretionary expenses, affecting local businesses and the overall economy. Impact on Businesses: All businesses heavily rely on electricity to function optimally. This means that a spike in electricity tariffs directly impacts operational and production costs, reducing profitability and competitiveness. Energy-intensive industries, such as manufacturing, mining, and hospitality services, may experience significant challenges when tariffs spiral. Higher electricity costs may compel businesses to cut back on operations, reduce staff, or pass on the increased expenses to consumers through higher prices, ultimately impacting the purchasing power of the general population. Renewable Energy Adoption: Globally, countries are making efforts towards transitioning to cleaner energy sources to curtail the adverse effects of climate change on the planet and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. The tariff spike may cause people to seek alternative energy sources, thus promoting renewable adoption and providing the much-needed boost needed to help Nigeria realize its 2030 goals and the Energy Transition Plan. Attracting Investments: For the NESI, the increase in electricity tariff seems like a giant leap towards achieving cost-reflective tariffs. For several years the electricity value chain has suffered losses, with DisCos being unable to meet their financial obligations. Achieving cost-reflective tariffs instils confidence in the minds of investors and intending investors, and it demonstrates that investors can recoup profits from their investments. The electricity tariff increase will impact varying sectors and stakeholders negatively and positively. Therefore, these predicted impacts present a difficult task for policymakers to strike a balance between the requirement for a power sector that is financially sustainable with affordable energy. Given that the pains of fuel subsidy removal still linger, will the DisCos hold off on this impending increase or proceed? The coming days will tell. June 30, 2023 0 comment 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Power Punch Energy and Tourism by doose June 25, 2023 written by doose Nigeria is a country generously blessed with natural attractions and diverse landscapes. Yet, with this wealth of resources, the country’s tourism industry remains stunted for several reasons, including the epileptic power supply in the country. Hence, alternative energy sources can be pivotal in ensuring sustainable tourism. According to the World Travel and Tourism Council, Tourism is one of the world’s largest economic sectors, supporting one in 10 jobs (319 million) worldwide and generating 10.4% of the world GDP. As such, if well managed, tourism can catalyze national development. Tourism contributes 3.6% of Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and experts predict that it can contribute more if adequately harnessed, displacing Nigeria’s mono-economy. The United States, Kenya, South Africa and Dubai have made significant returns for their governments by harnessing the potential of tourism in their country. In 2019, Nigeria ranked 129th out of 136 countries in the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Index, far behind other African countries such as Mauritius, Seychelles, and Egypt, ranked 54th, 61st, and 65th, respectively. This statistic presents an urgent need to address energy access as a core challenge derailing the sector in Nigeria. The tourism and energy sectors are not mutually exclusive, so tourism cannot reach its peak without an improved power sector. The tourism industry is a sector that relies heavily on stable electricity to operate optimally. This is supported by statistics that state that energy is reportedly the second-largest spending category for a tourist business after employment. The tourist industry is also reported to contribute to global emissions significantly. Therefore, exploring alternative energies for sustainable tourism is crucial. In Nigeria, developing economically viable alternative energy sources, such as geothermal, solar, and wind power, can offer a sustainable and dependable energy supply for lodging facilities, vacation destinations, and other infrastructure involved in the travel and tourist industry. Traditional energy sources, such as fossil fuels, are sometimes expensive and subject to price volatility in Nigeria. Alternative energy sources are a more economical choice because of their scale. The modular nature of many renewable energy (RE) systems means they can be built or paid for as the energy demand grows, and embedded within the existing energy network, as opposed to large, centralized energy systems. For the tourism sector, increasing the reliability of power supplies and minimizing power outages can be a crucial element of customer satisfaction. Nigeria’s tourism potential extends beyond urban areas to rural communities with unique cultural heritage, landscapes, and wildlife. However, these regions often lack access to reliable electricity. Alternative energy solutions can power guest houses, community centres, and attractions, breeding rural tourism infrastructure and boosting local economies. Globally, there is a looming concern about how the activities of businesses and various sectors affect the environment. The tourism sector is reportedly some of the worst offenders in terms of carbon emissions. Hence, exploring renewable energy sources in this sector indicates the nation’s commitment to climate action. Furthermore, tourist destinations with clean energy technologies are more attractive to investors who are conscious of efforts to combat climate change. Furthermore, as customers become more aware of these impacts, demand for cleaner goods and services increases. Embracing alternative energy sources presents an opportunity for Nigeria’s tourism industry to be revived. Tourist sites such as the Mambilla Plateau in Taraba, Obudu Mountain Resort in Cross Rivers, and Yankari Games Reserves in Bauchi could be developed to world standards. Therefore, governments, businesses, and relevant stakeholders must respond through a range of actions, beginning with energy efficiency and continuing with investments in renewable energy. By leveraging alternative energy sources, Nigeria can resuscitate its tourism sector, attract investors, promote sustainability, and unlock economic growth. June 25, 2023 0 comment 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Power Punch Barriers to Clean Cooking Technology Adoption in Nigeria by doose June 13, 2023 written by doose Clean cooking technologies have shown great promise in curbing greenhouse emissions and as a pathway to enable Nigeria achieve its Energy Transition Plan. (ETP) However, their adoption in sub-Saharan countries like Nigeria remains low. The “Tracking SDG7 Energy Progress 2023” report predicts that 1.9 billion people will lack clean cooking by 2030, with most in Sub-Saharan Africa. Therefore, we must identify and overcome barriers to adopting these technologies. Nigeria is generously blessed with vast renewable resources, yet, most citizens still use unclean fuels for cooking, especially those in rural areas. According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) survey, 68.3% of all Nigerian households still use solid biomass (firewood and charcoal) for cooking. Besides being highly inefficient, these traditional, open-fire cooking methods produce toxic particulates that cause household air pollution and contribute to an estimated 3.2 million deaths yearly. The main objective of Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG7) is to provide access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all. However, this can hardly be achieved unless we understand the limitations and challenges of adopting improved cooking to eliminate them. In Nigeria, the following are some barriers responsible for the low adoption rate of clean cooking technologies: Affordability: This is reportedly one of Nigeria’s most significant barriers to adopting and using clean cooking. According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), 40.1% of Nigerians are classified as poor. As such, many households in Nigeria, especially those in rural areas, are low-income communities. Hence, they are more likely to adopt affordable traditional cooking fuels like charcoal and wood, despite the security and health risks these methods pose. Even if people understand the benefits of adopting clean cooking, affordability is a barrier. Hence, targeted subsidies and innovative financing models can help bridge the affordability gap. Awareness Creation: despite noteworthy actions in this area, there is a considerable need to intensify awareness, especially in rural areas. These people barely have access to conventional information channels like tv and social media, which could result in low awareness in these areas. Thus, there is a need for the government to invest in a lot of in-person and radio awareness, which is more effective in these areas, based on their current realities. Cultural Bottlenecks: This encompasses how people’s existing beliefs affect their willingness to adopt clean cooking technologies. Some people believe that cooking with firewood improves the taste and aroma of the food. In some cases, certain cultures believe that cooking is traditionally a way to keep their ancestry alive. These beliefs are ingrained in their system, and convincing them to adopt better methods is difficult. These people need to be educated on the risks and opportunities of clean cooking to convince them to adopt these methods. Supply Constraints: Supply constraints can hinder the adoption of clean cooking technologies by limiting their existence in certain Nigerian markets, leading to fewer options for consumers and a challenge to access these technologies. In a report by the International Center for Energy, Environment and Development (ICEED) on Expanding Demand for Clean-Cooking in Nigeria, several participants in the focus-group discussions had never even seen an improved cook stove in their local markets. Thus, the government needs to address these issues that cause supply constraints. Our environment and people, especially women and children, have suffered and continue to suffer the consequences of unclean cooking. Eradicating these barriers is vital to improving people’s lives, communities and achieving the ETP. Therefore, the government must intervene, and collaborate with relevant stakeholders and community leaders, to increase investments and actions towards dissolving these barriers. June 13, 2023 0 comment 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Power PunchUncategorized Clean Cooking Technologies by doose May 30, 2023 written by doose The race to fulfil Nigeria’s ambitious plans to achieve Net-Zero by 2060 has created a responsibility for government to check and ensure that anthropogenic activities are reduced to the least possible amount. A pathway to achieving this is through the adoption of clean cooking technologies by households in Nigeria.Clean cooking refers to using purer fuels and energy-efficient modern stoves for domestic use. As of 2020, the share of the population with access to clean cooking technologies was 30.2 per cent, representing less than a quarter of the Nigerian population. Ensuring access to modern cooking solutions is vital to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG 7) and Nigeria’s Vision 3030 goals. Hence, there is a considerable need to accelerate clean cooking in Nigeria.Below are some examples of clean cooking technologies as approved by the world health organization:Liquefied Petroleum gas (LPG): LPG is a clean-burning fuel that produces fewer pollutants than traditional biomass fuels. LPG stoves provide a convenient and cleaner alternative for cooking e.g. Methane and butane.Biogas Systems: Biogas is a renewable energy solution produced by the breakdown of organic matter, such as food or animal waste, by anaerobic bacteria in an oxygen-free environment. Biogas systems capture the Methane produced during this process and use it as a cooking fuel.Improved cooking stoves: These are designed to burn fuel more efficiently, reducing fuel consumption and minimizing smoke emissions. They often have features like insulation, better combustion chambers, and chimneys to direct smoke outside the cooking area.Electric rice cookers: Electric stoves or induction cooktops are powered by electricity and offer a clean and efficient cooking option. However, their widespread adoption in Nigeria may be limited due to electricity access and affordability challenges.Ethanol stoves: Ethanol is produced from sugar plants or other biomass sources. An advantage of the technology is that ethanol provides a higher heat flux with no soot or smoke, and cooking can occur faster and pollution-freeIn developing countries like Nigeria, polluting fuels like wood and charcoal is mainly used for cooking, and the gases emitted from this activity contribute to increasing carbon emissions, which contribute to air pollution—resulting in a range of respiratory diseases like asthma and lung cancer. Statistics show that household air pollution causes more than 4 million deaths every year, mostly affecting women and children who bear the brunt of household activities.Another effect of using unclean fuels like wood and charcoal to cook is that it promotes deforestation, by cutting down of trees to make firewood, thereby, hindering progress towards climate action. Additionally, traditional cooking burdens women and children because they are primarily tasked with sourcing firewood used for traditional cooking. Also, the process can be time-consuming, limiting opportunities to pursue their personal or educational goals.Traditional cooking methods have proved inefficient and harmful to our health, economy and planet. Thus, the adoption of clean cooking technologies is crucial. It is commendable what organizations like the Clean Cooking Alliance and Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL) are doing to accelerate clean cooking in Nigeria by providing grants and championing domestic policies towards clean cooking adoption. However, there is much work to be done.With the emergence of a new government in Nigeria, clean cooking can be adapted in several ways. This could be through providing clean cooking technologies at a subsidized and affordable rate, especially for people in local communities, providing support through incentivizing companies to produce clean cooking technologies and finally, creating awareness at all levels to educate the masses on clean cooking technologies and its benefits. May 30, 2023 0 comment 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Power Punch Actions Towards a Healthier Planet by doose May 8, 2023 written by doose Newton’s third law of motion states, “For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.” The actions of humans have ridiculed and diminished the planet over centuries. The consequences now affect us, evident through the deteriorating climate and other biological processes. Therefore, there is an urgency to shed more light on actions towards a healthier planet. Scientists worldwide on the intergovernmental panel on climate change have shared that climate models predict the Earth’s global average temperature will rise an additional 4° C (7.2° F) during the 21st Century if greenhouse gas levels continue to rise at present levels. In tackling climate change, several governments have come together under the Paris Agreement to commit to reducing greenhouse gas emissions (GHG). In addition, the United Nations has also called for climate action through its sustainable development goal Thirteen (13). Despite these efforts, the task is to turn these commitments into real and meaningful action, and achieving this will require the participation of every citizen. This is because our lifestyles have a profound impact on our planet. Statistics have shown that household consumption accounts for around two-thirds of global Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions which occur through the energy sources we use, the food we eat, the items we buy, our transportation choices, and our waste management methods, amongst others. Hence, we must seek ways to contribute to a healthier planet. The ways to reduce our carbon footprint are feasible but not immediate; however, they add up and make a significant impact in time. For example, reducing car dependency through cycling and walking contributes to reducing GHG emissions in the air. Likewise, opting for public transportation also contributes to plummeting the number of vehicles on the road and reducing the gases emitted and, consequently, air pollution. Planting trees to augment the high deforestation rate due to furniture, charcoal, and paper production is also a much-needed action in the fight against the planet’s depletion. Another way to contribute to a healthier planet is through proper waste management. Irresponsible waste management results in litter and affects our environment causing air and sea pollution. Despite waste being an inevitable byproduct of human life, it can be managed through recycling and reusing waste items that are not recyclable. For instance, plastics like water bottles can be transformed into other useful items, thereby reducing the waste that ends in landfills. Also, minimising energy usage by switching off lights and appliances not used around the home helps preserve energy and reduce footprints. Conversely, opting for cleaner energy sources, like solar, and adopting clean cooking solutions, like liquefied natural gas and biogas, has the potential to reduce emissions. Unfortunately, very few people in Nigeria know about climate change, its effects, and how they, as citizens, can contribute to reducing global carbon footprints. According to Statista, as of 2020, more than six (6) Nigerians out of ten (10) had never heard about climate change. These statistics highlight an awareness gap and a considerable need for everyone to lend their voices to these causes. Speaking up can be done by starting conversations around climate action on social media platforms or by enlightening those within our reach in meaningful climate discussions and actions towards reducing their carbon footprints. Finally, the Nigerian government should prioritise creating more awareness programs on actions towards combating climate change whilst providing enlightenment on those initiatives already in place to catalyse impact and buy-in, as people are better positioned to make sustainable and less harmful environmental choices when informed. May 8, 2023 0 comment 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
