African Focus The Electricity Access Gap and its Implications for Human and Economic Wellbeing in Africa by David Omata June 15, 2024 Published by David Omata Clean and affordable electricity is central to modern human development. It provides the necessary infrastructure for health, education, and economic activities. In Africa, however, there remains a significant gap in electricity access, which has profound implications for human well-being and economic growth. This article explores the current state of electricity access in Africa, its impacts on human well-being, and the economic consequences of this gap while suggesting potential solutions to bridge this divide. Click here to download June 15, 2024 0 comments 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Connecting The Dots Ethical Mining and Sustainable Solutions by Doose Iortyom June 14, 2024 Published by Doose Iortyom The global shift to green economies is creating a huge demand for minerals like lithium, copper, cobalt, and manganese. These minerals are essential for batteries, solar panels, and other green tech that underpin the transition from fossil fuels to renewables. However, poorly executed mining projects in fragile regions can exacerbate conflicts, risking the transition’s success at the expense of increased suffering and strife. As such, it is crucial to examine the broader implications of the green transition for local communities and critically assess if the sacrifices demanded are ethically acceptable at regional and global levels. This episode features Jabri Ibrahim, Africa Special Programmes Lead, UN, High-Level Climate Champions. He joins us to discuss responsible mining, energy transition and everything in between. June 14, 2024 0 comments 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
African Focus Ghana’s Energy Transition Plan: Advancing Clean Cooking Solutions by David Omata March 22, 2024 Published by David Omata In September 2023, the government of Ghana unveiled its Energy Transition Plan (ETP) to achieve zero by 2060, marking a significant stride towards sustainable development. The ETP entails a substantial capital investment, estimated at a bare minimum of USD 550 billion by 2060, representing a USD 140 billion increase compared to business-as-usual (BAU) scenarios. Over 70% of these investments are earmarked for the power and transport sectors, primarily driving a comprehensive shift towards renewable energy sources and reducing carbon emissions. This ambitious initiative is projected to catalyze new economic activities within the energy sector, potentially creating up to 400,000 net new jobs by 2060. Ghana’s ETP outlines six key decarbonization technologies under the Orderly Transition Pathway. A significant portion, approximately 40%, of the required emissions reduction is expected to be achieved through transport electrification. These technologies include electrification and renewables, which involve displacing fossil fuel consumption with electricity sourced from solar, wind, geothermal, and possibly nuclear power, complemented by energy storage solutions. Carbon capture and storage technologies will also be deployed to capture CO2 emissions from industrial processes, while low carbon hydrogen will serve as a greener alternative for industrial and transportation needs. Battery electric mobility aims to replace internal combustion engines with electric batteries across various vehicle types. The plan also emphasizes the adoption of Clean Cooking Technologies to replace traditional biomass fuels with efficient electric biomass cookers and advocates for Negative-Emission Solutions like Bioenergy with Carbon Capture and Storage (BECCS) to mitigate carbon emissions effectively. Ghana is positioned to use this orderly transition pathway to embark on a sustainable path towards a low-carbon future, fostering economic growth while mitigating environmental impact. Advancing Clean Cooking Solutions Less than a year after adopting the ETP, Ghana has taken a significant step in embracing clean cooking solutions in collaboration with international partners and stakeholders to prioritize promoting clean cooking technologies. The recent authorization of the ‘Transformative Cookstove Activity in Rural Ghana’ is a testament to the country’s commitment to advancing clean cooking solutions. Through partnerships with organizations like ACT Group, Envirofit, and the KliK Foundation, Ghana aims to distribute improved cookstoves (ICS) to rural and peri-urban households, significantly reducing smoke and toxic emissions while cutting cooking fuel costs. According to the report by ACT, a leading global provider of market-based sustainability solutions, the authorization of this cookstove activity not only contributes to mitigating greenhouse gas emissions but also aligns with Ghana’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The proposed distribution of the 180,000 Improved Cookstoves (ICS) will improve the lives of 0.75 million Ghanaian citizens and create local job opportunities; the initiative addresses environmental and socio-economic challenges. Up to 10,000 deaths annually in Ghana are associated with air quality issues; the ICS technology mitigates this by decreasing smoke and toxic emissions in individual households by as much as 80%. Additionally, it trims cooking fuel costs by approximately 60%. Ghana’s readiness to achieve its energy transition plan, particularly in the clean cooking sector, is evident through several critical factors, as discussed below: • Policy Framework: Ghana has developed a comprehensive policy framework supporting clean cooking technologies through regulations, standards, and incentives; the government is promoting modern and low-carbon cooking solutions while addressing affordability and accessibility challenges. • International Cooperation: Ghana’s collaboration with international partners, including Switzerland, demonstrates its commitment to leveraging global expertise and resources to accelerate the adoption of clean cooking solutions. Bilateral agreements, such as the one signed at COP26, provide a legal framework for implementing greenhouse gas mitigation activities and ensuring environmental integrity. • Innovation and Monitoring: Ghana is embracing innovation and technology to enhance the effectiveness of its clean cooking initiatives. Digital monitoring and verification techniques, as exemplified by Envirofit’s state-of-the-art usage and performance monitoring strategy, ensure accountability and transparency in project implementation. • Community Engagement: Ghana recognizes the importance of community engagement and awareness in driving the adoption of clean cooking technologies. The government and its partners empower households to transition to cleaner and more sustainable cooking practices through targeted outreach programs, product demonstrations, and financial incentives. Conclusion Ghana has emerged as a frontrunner among its West African counterparts by taking this huge step to implement Improved Cookstoves (ICS) as part of its Energy Transition Plan to decarbonize the cooking sector. With this strategy, the nation is undoubtedly laying the groundwork for a more promising and sustainable future by meeting its citizens’ energy requirements while reducing environmental impact. AuthorOmata David OmakojiTechnical Associate – Nextier Power March 22, 2024 0 comments 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
African Focus Harnessing Tax Incentives to Accelerate E-mobility in Africa by David Omata March 8, 2024 Published by David Omata The transport sector remains a significant emitter of greenhouse gasses, responsible for approximately one-quarter of global emissions. Despite efforts to transition to cleaner energy sources, the fact sheet on climate change has shown that 95% of the world’s transport energy still relies on fossil fuels. The fact sheet also reveals that in 45% of countries, transport is the largest source of energy-related emissions; in others, it ranks as the second largest. The transport sector accounts for 57% of global oil demand and 28% of total energy consumption. In Africa, transport emissions are fast increasing from a low baseline. Between 2010 and 2019, Africa experienced a 27% increase in transport emissions, ranking second only to Asia (41%) according to the data from the SLOCAT partnership on sustainable low-carbon transport. The global target for a 60% share of battery-electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles by 2050 could save more than 60 billion tons of CO2 emissions. As the global transition towards electric vehicles (EVs) gains momentum, African nations must intensify their decarbonisation efforts in the transport sector through collective efforts against climate change to accelerate the adoption of EVs. This commitment is reflected in implementing policies centred on tax incentives and waivers to promote the uptake of electric vehicles across the continent. Overview of Countries’ E-mobility Tax Policies In a bold move towards sustainability, Ghana’s 2024 budget speech unveiled a series of tax incentives to promote the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs). These measures, including the waiver of import duties on electric vehicles for public transportation and incentives for registered EV assembly companies, mark a significant step towards reducing emissions and addressing traffic congestion issues in the country. The decision to waive import duties on electric vehicles for public transportation for eight years, coupled with similar incentives for locally assembled EVs, demonstrates Ghana’s commitment to fostering a greener transportation ecosystem. By extending the zero VAT rate on locally assembled vehicles, the government encourages domestic manufacturing and paves the way for sustainable mobility solutions. Ghana’s initiative reflects a broader trend across Africa, where several countries have taken steps to reduce or eliminate import duties and taxes on electric vehicles. From Tunisia to Kenya, Uganda, and other African countries, their governments recognise the importance of incentivising EV adoption to combat climate change and promote sustainable development. Tunisia’s 2023 financial act reduces customs tariffs on electric car charging equipment to 10% and lowers value-added tax to 7%. The Tunisian Ministry of Environment anticipates that these efforts will deploy 50,000 electric vehicles by 2025. According to the Ministry, this project is expected to dramatically reduce oil usage (5.9 million barrels) and fossil fuel imports by US$660 million between 2020 and 2030. These incentives indicate Tunisia’s commitment to sustainability and are consistent with broader efforts throughout Africa to promote environmentally friendly transportation options. The Kenyan government has unveiled plans to reduce excise duties on electric vehicles (EVs) from 20% to 10% to encourage the manufacturing of EVs within the country. Additionally, the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority has implemented measures to regulate the price of charging stations nationwide. Lowering the taxes on EVs and regulating charging station prices will encourage investment in EV technology and infrastructure while addressing concerns about affordability and accessibility. Uganda’s 2023/2024 budget included several tax reforms, including eliminating import tariffs on electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrids, including electric motorbikes. This strategic initiative, as detailed in a paper by the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA), is based on encouraging the use of electric vehicles and reducing pollution. The tax breaks are intended to accelerate the transition to cleaner transportation choices, demonstrating a commitment to environmental sustainability and harmonising with global initiatives to promote greener practices in the car industry. According to Ethiopia’s current e-mobility policy, all-electric vehicles are now exempt from VAT, excise tax, and surtax. The only remaining tax is the customs tax, which has been reduced to 15% for fully assembled vehicles and 5% for semi-assembled ones. Completely knocked-down (CKD) vehicles assembled within Ethiopia are exempt from taxation. The Ministry of Transport and Logistics established charging stations in three locations within Addis Ababa before transferring the responsibility to the private sector. ConclusionAs Africa grapples with urbanisation, population expansion, and climate change challenges, the transition to electric cars appears as a critical potential for transformation.Africa can chart a course for a more sustainable and prosperous future through innovation and collaboration. The current development regarding tax incentives from several African countries is welcoming; however, it is critical to emphasise that increasing EV adoption necessitates comprehensive policies that promote equity for all and tax breaks. Supporting local entrepreneurs, increasing access to financing, and building technical expertise are critical activities for maximising the benefits of electric mobility throughout society. Tax incentives are essential for increasing electric car use in Africa, increasing the momentum toward greener transportation alternatives. With creative policies and strategic investments, Africa can lead a long-term mobility revolution to benefit current and future generations. We look forward to seeing these initiatives in Africa as we reach the net zero target. March 8, 2024 0 comments 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Connecting The Dots Enhancing Energy Reliability through Storage Technologies by Doose Iortyom February 29, 2024 Published by Doose Iortyom The imperative for clean energy and concerns about the capacity and resilience of energy grids have heightened the interest in energy storage solutions. These technologies are pivotal in bridging the gap between intermittent renewable energy generation and consistent power supply. This episode features Julia Souder, Chief Executive Officer of Long Duration Energy Storage Council. She joins us to discuss emerging technologies in energy storage and how these technologies promote energy reliability and increase the efficiency of grids worldwide. The conversation also suggests policy recommendations for the Nigerian market. February 29, 2024 0 comments 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Connecting The Dots Progress Outlook: The 2024 Energy Year by Doose Iortyom February 1, 2024 Published by Doose Iortyom The Connecting the Dots Podcast Series is back! For the first episode of the year, our guest is Mr. Sadiq Wanka. He is the Special Adviser to the President of Nigeria on Power Infrastructure. This discussion will explore key sector events from the year 2023, and how these events are shaping Nigeria’s energy sector. Setting the pace for the new year, it is imperative to reflect on 2023, identify gaps, propose directives, and strategize for a successful 2024. February 1, 2024 0 comments 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
African Focus OPEC Exits: The Delicate Dance of National vs Global Priorities in the Era of Fossil Fuel Phase-Down. by David Omata January 16, 2024 Published by David Omata The decisions by Angola and Ecuador to exit OPEC and that of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to encourage other OPEC members to increase their production have potential implications for the global effort to phase down fossil fuels, as proposed in COP28. Angola’s decision to leave OPEC is primarily driven by its reluctance to accept further production cuts. This move may complicate OPEC’s efforts to collectively reduce oil production to stabilize prices and address concerns related to oversupply. Angola’s emphasis on avoiding production decline and respecting contracts reflects a focus on national economic interests. This approach may challenge the broader global commitment to reduce fossil fuel production and consumption in line with COP28 goals. With Angola no longer bound by OPEC production quotas, there’s a possibility that the country could increase its oil production, contributing to a higher global oil supply and potentially undermining efforts to transition away from fossil fuels. The UAE’s indication to increase oil production aligns with its historical role as a significant energy supplier. If the UAE successfully persuades other OPEC members to follow suit, it could increase global oil supply, which may counter the COP28 objective of phasing down fossil fuels aside from the OPEC regulations on cutting down production to regulate oil prices. The UAE’s emphasis on stability in oil markets suggests prioritizing economic considerations. This stance may challenge the transition towards renewable energy sources if it leads to prolonged dependence on fossil fuels. Ecuador left OPEC in January 2020, citing economic reasons and a need to increase oil production to address its financial challenges. The country faced economic difficulties, and the decision to exit OPEC was part of its strategy to boost oil revenues. This departure emphasized some member countries’ internal economic pressures, influencing their organisational stance. Among all the countries that exited OPEC, it’s only the exit of Qatar from OPEC in 2019 to focus on gas that aligns with the climate goals of transitioning towards cleaner energy sources; the rest gave economic reasons. OPEC’s historical exits and suspensions indicate challenges in achieving a unified approach to global climate goals. Differences in national priorities and economic interests continue to shape the decisions of member countries. Countries’ decisions to leave OPEC offer valuable insights into the challenges and dynamics that may be relevant to the global energy transition plan and the goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2060. When nations come to a crossroads where emission reduction initiatives overlap with economic prosperity considerations, the precedent set by OPEC exits suggests a predilection toward prioritizing economic prosperity. Key Lessons and Recommendations National Interests vs. Global Commitments: Countries prioritize national economic concerns when making decisions about their energy strategies. Economic considerations, such as the need for revenue and energy security, can sometimes take precedence over global commitments. In the context of the global push for net-zero emissions, countries may prioritize their immediate economic interests, especially if they rely heavily on fossil fuel industries either as a net importer or exporter. Striking a balance between national economic concerns and global environmental goals will be a significant challenge.Economic Pressures and Transition ChallengesEconomic challenges, such as financial pressures and the need for increased revenue, were key factors in some OPEC exits. These economic pressures can influence a country’s energy strategy. Countries pursuing net-zero emissions must address economic challenges associated with the energy transition. Economic incentives, supporting affected industries, and ensuring a just transition for countries reliant on fossil fuels are essential to a successful global energy transition plan. Shifts in Energy DynamicsThe exits from OPEC also reflected broader shifts in global energy dynamics, with countries like Qatar focusing on emerging energy sources like natural gas. As the world works toward net-zero emissions, acknowledging and adapting to changing energy dynamics is crucial. Embracing new technologies, fostering innovation, and leveraging emerging energy sources are vital to a successful transition plan. Unity and Collaboration Challenges OPEC faced challenges maintaining unity and cohesion among member countries with divergent priorities. Internal divisions can hinder the effectiveness of collective efforts. Global efforts toward net-zero emissions require international collaboration. Balancing the interests of different nations and fostering cooperation will be essential to overcome challenges and achieve the shared goal. ConclusionThe experiences of countries leaving OPEC highlight the complexities involved in aligning national interests with global goals. As the world strives for a net-zero future, addressing economic concerns, fostering innovation, and promoting international cooperation will be critical to overcoming the challenges of phasing down fossil fuels and achieving the 2060 net-zero emission target. January 16, 2024 0 comments 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Power Punch COP 28 FOCUS: Beyond the Pledges by Doose Iortyom December 19, 2023 Published by Doose Iortyom The United Nations Environmental Programme’s (UNEP) latest emissions gap report reveals an alarming surge in global average temperatures. In September 2023, temperatures were 1.8°C above pre-industrial levels. In light of these findings, the 28th edition of the Climate Change Conference of Parties (COP) assumes unparalleled significance. These statistics also indicate an imperative for nations to not only make commitments but, more critically, to implement them swiftly. Annually convened, the Climate Change Conference of Parties (COP) re-evaluates climate commitments, ensuring nations progress towards net-zero targets. A core point of COP is the commitments and initiatives that enable progress on a just, equitable and sustainable energy transition. This approach is crucial to drive down the impacts of climate change. Reasonably, Nigeria’s participation in COP28, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, underscores commitments to end gas flaring, reduce carbon footprint and commit not just to an energy mix but an eco-friendly future driven by sustainable energy sources to turn Nigeria into an investment-friendly environment for the carbon market investments. Despite these commitments, the pivotal task is to turn these pledges into productive actions. Hence, a focal point of COP28 is to examine implementation through the inaugural Global Stocktake. The global Stocktake was designed under the Paris Agreement to assess our global response to the climate crisis and chart a better way forward. Scheduled every five years, the Stocktake is intended to inform the next round of nationally determined contributions (NDCs) to be put forward by 2025. The objective of the Stocktake is to aid policymakers and stakeholders in strengthening their climate policies and commitments in their next round of NDCs, paving the way for expedited action. The success of COP28 depends largely on the effective mechanisms that monitor progress and ensure adherence. For Nigeria, a significant gap remains in advancing the green transition. The Nigeria Energy Transition Plan posits that Nigeria will spend $410 billion above business-as-usual spending, which translates to about $10 billion annually, to support its 2060 Net-Zero goal. Clearly, finance is a critical part of an energy transition; this informed the historic launch and operationalization of the loss and damage fund to cater to vulnerable African Communities like the Niger-delta regions. Nigeria must position itself to access these funds. The Nigerian government must employ different instruments such as climate bonds, public-private partnerships, and mechanisms that incentivize sustainable investments. Adaptation and resilience strategies are also crucial components that must be explored to support the green transition agenda. In addition, actualizing these commitments demands investments in sustainable technologies. COP28 emphasizes the significant role of information and communication technologies (ICTs) in early warning systems, monitoring and adapting to climate change, and mitigation strategies, including increasing energy efficiency, creating green networks, and creating circular economies. Against this backdrop, Nigeria must explore incentives and partnerships that promote developing and deploying green technologies on a global scale. Lastly, turning these commitments into real and meaningful action will require the participation of every citizen. This is because our lifestyles have a profound impact on our planet. Efforts should be intensified towards facilitating knowledge exchange and support systems to empower vulnerable regions in building resilience. Also, emphasizing the importance of environmental education urges nations to integrate sustainability into curricula and engage communities in climate-related initiatives. In conclusion, COP28 marks a crucial juncture where nations must move beyond pledges into tangible, transformative actions. Transparency, stakeholder engagement, technological innovation, finance, adaptation, and public awareness constitute the bedrock for successful implementation. The conference’s impact will be measured by the transformative steps taken to secure a sustainable future for generations ahead. December 19, 2023 0 comments 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Power Punch ETP: Decarbonizing Nigeria’s Industrial Sector by David Omata December 18, 2023 Published by David Omata In 2020, the industrial sector contributed significantly to Nigeria’s emissions totalling 29MtCO2. To drive down these emissions, the Nigerian Energy Transition Plan (ETP) details a comprehensive strategy designed to achieve net-zero emissions in the country’s energy consumption, with the industrial sector as one of the five targeted areas. The ETP details a decarbonization strategy focused on the cement and ammonia production industries. The plan sets ambitious targets for clinker substitution for cement production, aiming to transition to a composition of 19% calcined clay and 81% clinker by 2030. In addition, the plan envisions an even split of 50% calcined clay and 50% clinker substitution by 2050. Simultaneously, integrating Bioenergy with Carbon Capture and Storage (BECCS) is proposed to play a crucial role in reducing emissions. The short-term goal is to implement 2% BECCS and 98% conventional heating by 2030, gradually progressing to an equal distribution of 50% BECCS and 50% conventional heating by 2050. In the ammonia production sector, the ETP is set for a shift in hydrogen sources. By 2030, the plan aims to adopt 33% blue hydrogen and 67% steam methane reforming to transition to an equal distribution of 50% blue hydrogen and 50% green hydrogen by 2050 to align with global efforts to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and promote sustainable alternatives. Potential Challenges with the Industry Decarbonization Target While the Nigerian Energy Transition Plan (ETP) outlines ambitious targets for decarbonizing the industrial sector, several challenges, including financial barriers, may pose obstacles to achieving these goals. The transition to sustainable technologies often requires significant upfront investments. Industries may face financial constraints, hindering their ability to adopt new processes and technologies. With a total target of $1.9 trillion and an annual target of $10 billion, financing this ambitious target may pose some challenges, except some pragmatic steps are taken through foreign direct investments (FDI), Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) PPPs and creating a more enabling business environment to attract investments into the country. Another potential challenge of the ETP will be Nigeria’s technological readiness. The readiness and availability of technologies for clinker substitution, BECCS, and hydrogen adoption are still in the early stages. Industries may face challenges integrating and adapting these technologies to their existing processes. This goes hand in hand with the challenge of the workforce transition; shifting to new processes and technologies requires a skilled workforce. Addressing potential skill gaps and retraining the existing workforce poses a challenge and may lead to temporary disruptions in productivity. Also, Public perception and acceptance of new technologies may affect their adoption, which can delay the transition. Other challenges may include Inadequate infrastructure for renewable energy sources and hydrogen distribution, as this can impede the widespread adoption of clean technologies. Therefore, developing the necessary infrastructure may require substantial time and resources. Also, implementing regulations promoting low-carbon practices depends on effective enforcement and industry compliance. Inconsistencies or delays in policy enforcement could hinder progress. In addition, the market volatility may be a challenge because the global market dynamics, especially in sectors like hydrogen production, can be volatile. Dependence on external factors may affect the availability and cost-effectiveness of certain technologies, impacting the transition. Conclusion The industrial sector’s decarbonization strategy outlined in the Nigerian ETP presents a comprehensive roadmap to achieve emission reduction targets. By focusing on clinker substitution, BECCS, and hydrogen adoption, Nigeria can significantly contribute to global climate goals while fostering economic growth and job creation. Navigating these challenges will require a concerted effort from the government, industry, and other stakeholders. Flexibility in approaches, proactive problem-solving, and continuous adaptation to changing circumstances will be essential to overcoming these obstacles and realizing the goals set for 2060. December 18, 2023 0 comments 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Power Punch Clean Cooking and the Energy Transition Plan by David Omata December 13, 2023 Published by David Omata The Nigerian Energy Transition Plan (ETP) encompasses five key sectors: power, transport, oil and gas, cooking, and industry. While power often dominates discussions around the ETP, it is essential to note the significance of the cooking sector, which accounts for approximately 22% of Nigeria’s total greenhouse gas emissions, emitting around 40 million metric tons of CO2 in 2020. Sadly, an alarming 87% of the Nigerian population, totalling 175 million individuals, lack access to clean cooking facilities, resulting in severe environmental and health consequences, particularly for women and children. Health Impacts and Environmental Consequences The United Nations reported that in 2021, Nigeria had the highest number of child deaths globally due to pollution-related pneumonia, reaching nearly 70 thousand cases. According to UNICEF, 40% of these deaths are due to air pollution caused by the combustion of solid cooking fuels within households. Decarbonization Strategy Recognizing the urgency of addressing this issue, the Nigerian Energy Transition Plan has outlined a comprehensive strategy to decarbonize the cooking sector by 2050. The targets include transitioning urban dwellings to 95% electric stoves and 5% efficient wood stoves by 2050, rural dwellings to 57% electric stoves, 22% efficient wood stoves, 20% biogas, and 1% LPG by 2050, and commercial dwellings to 85% electric stoves, 10% efficient wood stoves, and 5% biogas by 2050. Key Components of the Decarbonization Strategy The pivotal elements of the strategy involve a shift from traditional firewood, charcoal, and kerosene to Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) until 2030, followed by the adoption of efficient wood stoves, electrification, and biogas, particularly in rural areas. Given its relevance across household categories and Nigeria’s abundant natural gas resources, LPG is highlighted as a crucial transitional fuel. Post-2030 Focus on Carbon-Neutral Technologies Post-2030, the emphasis shifts to carbon-neutral technologies such as electric cookstoves for grid-connected households and biogas for rural areas relying on off-grid electricity sources. The transition is expected to significantly reduce energy needs as more efficient technologies replace inefficient firewood stoves. Challenges and Accountability Despite the plan’s feasibility, some challenges need to be addressed. One instance is the misappropriation of funds in a past initiative. In 2014, the Federal Executive Council approved 9.2 billion Naira to procure 750,000 stoves and 18,000 Wonder Bags to distribute to rural women. Regrettably, only 45,000 clean cookstoves were provided, and a mere 15% of the approved funds were released to the contractor, raising concerns about financial mismanagement. RecommendationTo ensure the success of clean cooking projects under the energy transition plan, stringent monitoring of associated funds is imperative. Learning from past experiences, the Nigerian government must institute transparent mechanisms and strict accountability measures to safeguard funds allocated to these critical initiatives. Only through responsible governance and rigorous oversight can the laudable strategies outlined in the Energy Transition Plan manifest into tangible and impactful solutions for the Nigerian population, addressing both environmental concerns and public health challenges. December 13, 2023 0 comments 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
