Power Punch Energy and Tourism by Doose Iortyom June 25, 2023 Published by Doose Iortyom 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 comments 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Power PunchUncategorized Clean Cooking Technologies by Doose Iortyom May 30, 2023 Published by Doose Iortyom 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 comments 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Connecting The Dots Energy and Politics: The Influence of Lobbying on Regulation by Doose Iortyom May 30, 2023 Published by Doose Iortyom In this episode of Connecting the Dots, our guest is Dr Sam Amadi, Associate Professor and Director of the Abuja School of Social and Political Thought. He joins us to discuss the intersection between Energy and politics. He also highlights the influence of lobbying on policy and regulation and how lobbying can be fair, transparent and focused on the sector’s best interests and the nation’s common good. May 30, 2023 0 comments 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Power Punch The Need for Gender-Responsive Policies in Energy by Doose Iortyom March 14, 2023 Published by Doose Iortyom Women are critical in the energy sector as consumers and energy professionals. However, despite their contributions, women remain underrepresented in the sector, particularly in leadership and decision-making roles. This lack of gender diversity can hinder entry and advancement for women in the sector. Hence, the need for more gender-responsive policies in the energy sector. A gender-responsive policy refers to a policy or program which ensures that gender norms, roles, and relations are considered. In addition, such policies ensure that measures are taken to reduce the harmful effects of gender inequality actively. Gender-responsive policies range from flexible work arrangements to paid parental leave, gender-sensitive recruitment processes, and mentorship programs. These policies are essential to promote women’s participation and advancement in the energy sector Reports state that as of 2017, only 33 per cent of 192 national energy frameworks in 137 countries incorporated gender dimensions. Out of these frameworks, only one per cent recognised women as agents of change. Most policies in the energy sector lack a gender-sensitive approach. This disregards the role of women as primary managers of traditional energy sources, their potential to contribute to mitigation efforts, and their potential as entrepreneurs in the transition towards clean energy. Developing gender-responsive policies in the energy sector will equip the industry to tap into a diverse pool of talent, knowledge and skills. One of the critical challenges facing women in the energy sector is a lack of access to education and training opportunities. As a result, some talents may never be explored. Another critical challenge is a lack of access to financing and business development support, which can restrict the growth and impact of women-led energy initiatives. Furthermore, the stereotypical culture that technology is a man’s forte affects women in this space, especially in cases where women’s capabilities are often undermined and overlooked. In increasing women’s representation in the energy sector, policymakers must act to promote gender-responsive policies in the industry. These actions include developing and implementing policies that address women’s needs and concerns in the workplace. For example, energy companies can implement flexible work arrangements, including telecommuting and part-time work, to help women balance work and family responsibilities. Organisations can also provide targeted training and development opportunities to help women build the skills they need to succeed in the industry. Statistics show it may take 3oo years to phase out gender inequality without proper actions and investments. Hence, creating more gender-responsive policies in the energy sector is a move in the right direction to achieve closing the gender parity gap. Examples of successful gender-responsive energy policies include the Women in Renewable Energy (WIRE) program in Rwanda, which provides training and mentorship opportunities for women in the renewable energy sector. Also, the Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL) initiative promotes gender equality and women’s empowerment in the energy sector. Although these actions are reassuring, more work is needed in this regard, especially in Nigeria. Increasing women’s representation through gender-responsive policies in the energy sector is not only a moral imperative but also a business imperative. Studies show that companies with more diverse workforces perform better financially and are better equipped to innovate and adapt to changing market conditions. In the energy sector, diversity and inclusivity are critical to developing innovative solutions to address the world’s energy challenges. March 14, 2023 0 comments 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Power Punch Energy and Gender Equality by Aisi Atiti February 16, 2023 Published by Aisi Atiti Gender equality is an important topic of discussion across different parts of the global economy. The need to include women in professional capacities across sectors like health, education, security and energy cannot be overemphasised. However, there is an essential relationship among these industries between energy and gender equality, directly and indirectly. According to the European Institute for Gender Equality, gender equality means equal rights, responsibilities and opportunities for both men and women. Hence, these rights, responsibilities and opportunities are not predetermined on whether a child is born male or female. Although gender equality was incorporated into international human rights law and adopted by the United Nations (UN) General Assembly in December 1948, the UN has stated that it goes beyond being just a human right. According to the organisation, gender equality is essential to achieve peaceful societies with full human potential and sustainable development. The fifth UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG 5) is to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls. For 17 years, the Global Gender Gap Report has used four main indicators to measure the gap between women and men. These indicators are economic participation and opportunity, health and survival, educational attainment and political empowerment. The 2022 gender gap report, which covered 146 countries, estimated that it will take 132 years for the global gender gap between men and women to be closed. According to the report, North America is the most advanced region in reaching gender equality, with an average score of 76.9 per cent. Europe follows closely with 76.6 per cent. Sub-Saharan Africa ranked 6th with an average score of 68.7 per cent ahead of the Middle East, North Africa and South Asia. However, with this data, what is the relationship between energy and gender equality? According to the World Bank, as of 2020, the electricity access rate for North America stood at a 100 per cent. Comparatively, the electrification rate for Europe stood at 99.9 per cent and 48.2 per cent for Africa. Hence, could there be a connection between access to energy and gender equality? If yes, how much does energy access contribute to countries achieving gender equality? The lack of access to energy affects women in more ways than men, including health, safety, education and economic empowerment. With women being majorly responsible for household activities, especially in rural areas without energy access, they must find alternative energy sources for cooking and heating. These alternative energy sources, mainly firewood, coal or kerosene, lead to greenhouse gas emissions that harm health. These emissions, over time, lead to health complications for people in the immediate environment, primarily women and children. Also, in sourcing alternative energy sources, women spend a considerable amount of their lives out of school, which accounts for low literacy and capacity development among women. The lack of energy access to provide lighting in open spaces also affects women’s safety by encouraging gender-based violence. In addition, women’s safety is threatened in rural instances where they have to go into bushes to find firewood for household chores. The established relationship between energy and gender equality begs the urgency for the global community to intensify inclusion actions. A first step would be the inclusion of more women in the policy-making positions of national energy agencies. This would ensure the localisation of energy solutions to meet the needs of women, especially in rural areas. In addition, developing more energy projects to address the electrification deficits across regions will encourage female education. This is because women, particularly young girls, will not need to spend most of their days sourcing for alternative energy sources and can attend schools with more time and energy to study. This would improve the literacy rate for women globally and increase female personal development, which is essential for economic growth and sustainability. February 16, 2023 0 comments 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Power Punch Energy and Education by Aisi Atiti February 1, 2023 Published by Aisi Atiti So far, it has been proven that access to energy affects different parts of the global economy. These different parts include wealth, food supply, and health. However, one critical part of the economy of any nation is its educational system. Hence, this article hopes to explore the relationship between access to energy and education. According to data from the World Bank and Our World in Data, the global literacy rate stands at 87 per cent. However, there are disparities among countries and regions. For developed countries, the literacy rate is up to 99 per cent, but developing countries face a different reality. Countries in Sub-Saharan Africa, for example, currently have the lowest literacy rates in the world. As of 2020, the literacy rate for Sub-Saharan Africa stood at 66 per cent. So, with Africa being the least electrified continent with over 600 million people without electricity access, what could be the nexus between energy and education? By now, it is common knowledge that institutions such as hospitals and schools need energy to function, more so, function optimally. For schools, energy access is required for lighting, using educational equipment, enabling media/TV access and smart classrooms. These functions provide benefits, including saving time on school projects, increasing study time and improving knowledge sharing. However, according to a World Bank and United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) survey, for every five primary and secondary schools in Africa, four lack electricity access. This lack of electricity access greatly affects the quality of education by reducing school learning outcomes. In addition, electricity access deficits in Africa affect the general attitude towards education. The relationship between energy and education can also be explored at the household level. Due to the lack of household electricity, pupils and students spend more time on schoolwork because they have to find alternative energy sources. Most times, these alternative energy sources are fossil fuels which are harmful to health and contribute to global climate change. The hassle of finding alternative energy sources to do homework and study significantly impacts the attitude toward education. According to a report, in Vietnam, children from households with grid connectivity stay longer in school than those without grid connectivity. The fourth United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goal (SDG4) aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all. This goal targets improved primary, secondary, vocational and tertiary education for youths and adults by 2030. However, to achieve this, especially in Africa, countries must be more intentional about developing electrification programmes for educational institutions and households. Countries can harness the opportunities provided by financing streams and public-private partnerships to fund school electrification projects. This would help address the challenge of lack of financing through options such as grants, loans and subsidies. In addition, countries can also develop electrification programmes for schools that provide added benefits, such as providing electricity access to households. This would improve educational outcomes as students would have access to electricity at school and at home. In Nigeria, one of the government’s intervention programmes to improve the electrification of educational institutions is the Energising Education Programme (EEP). This programme is a component of the Rural Electrification Agency’s (REA) Nigerian Electrification Project (NEP). The component aims to electrify 37 federal universities and seven teaching hospitals nationwide. While developing countries try to bridge their electricity access deficits, attention should be paid to the electrification of educational institutions. According to data from the UN, nine out of ten children in Sub-Saharan Africa attend schools without electricity access. This significantly impacts the quality of education and learning outcomes, affecting countries’ literacy rates. Improving school electricity access, especially in developing countries, would ripple into all parts of the economy. And improved economies translate into better living standards and the general well-being of populations. February 1, 2023 0 comments 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Power Punch Energy and Health by Aisi Atiti January 18, 2023 Published by Aisi Atiti Over the years, energy consumption has proven to affect other aspects of life in the global community, one of which is health. Currently, 81 per cent of the energy systems worldwide still depend on fossil fuels despite the numerous consequences. This article will explore the relationship between the quality of energy and health. The United Nations’ third Sustainable Development Goal (SDG3) is to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages. Some of the goal’s 2030 targets include substantially reducing the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air and ending preventable deaths of newborns and children under the age of five. However, what role does energy play in global ambitions for good health and well-being? As earlier stated, most of the global community still depends on burning fossil fuels as a source of energy. However, this activity leads to effects such as air pollution and the release of greenhouse gases (GHG), which directly affect human health and contribute to climate change through global warming. In developing countries particularly, dirty fuels such as coal, firewood and kerosene are quite prominent in households. These fuels are often used for cooking, heating and running petty businesses. According to a 2022 World Health Organisation (WHO) factsheet, about 2.4 billion people use open fires and stoves fuelled by coal, wood and kerosene, leading to a significant amount of household air pollution. This practice is more common in rural areas, especially regions not connected to national grid networks. However, using such fuels for energy generation is known to significantly affect the health of these populations, especially women and children, since they are usually responsible for household chores. Globally, household air pollution is a major contributor to the increasing cases of diseases, such as stroke, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and lung cancer, among others. The WHO has reported that in 2020, household air pollution was responsible for about 3.2 million deaths globally, with 237,000 being children under the age of five. However, the effects of using fossil fuels to generate energy are not restricted to households alone. According to the same WHO factsheet, the effects of ambient and household air pollution are responsible for 6.7 million deaths annually. The relationship between energy and health can also be explored in the provisions for healthcare facilities. According to a United Nations (UN) report, one-eighth of the global population is served by health facilities that lack a reliable electricity supply. The report added that more than one in 10 South Asia and Sub-Saharan African healthcare facilities lack electricity access. Furthermore, the healthcare centres in rural areas are much worse in terms of energy access when compared to centres in urban areas. According to the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), two out of three people living in extreme poverty dwell in rural areas, which is about 400 million people. This estimates that 67 per cent of the global population living in extreme poverty reside in rural areas. With these areas hardly ever connected to grid electricity, alternative energy sources may not efficiently run institutions like healthcare facilities. In addition, these alternative energy sources also contribute to worsening the well-being of these populations. There is a direct relationship between energy and health at household, commercial and industrial levels. With the varying effects of burning fossil fuels on the health and well-being of populations, the global community must make a conscious effort towards developing clean and sustainable energy projects. In addition, according to the UN report, the clean electrification of healthcare facilities must be considered an utmost development priority. With increasing technological advancement in renewable energy, decentralised energy solutions can now provide clean, reliable and cost-effective power for household and utility-scale use. When readily implemented by countries, these clean energy solutions will help the global community to achieve SDG3 and create sustainable economies. January 18, 2023 0 comments 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
