Stakeholders examine roadmap to renewable energy adoption

•Charge government on investments

With a large number of Nigerians still unable to access power, stakeholders are weighing options for mainstreaming renewable energy and increasing its adoption to increase access to clean energy.

At a conference organised by the Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce (NBCC) on the theme. ‘Renewable energy: Innovation, transition, opportunities and challenges’ yesterday, stakeholders identified the need for the creation of policies that promote renewable energy development and deployment.

Managing Director, Shell Nigeria Gas, Ralph Gbobo, said to create a more sustainable future, the exploration, development and utilisation of renewable energy sources are essential components of the energy landscape.

“In pursuit of a more sustainable future, innovation plays a vital role in transforming the production of energy by fostering new technologies, business models and ideas. We can pave the way for positive change, collaboration among the private sector; government agencies and academia are essential to overcome the challenges we face in the transition to renewable,” he said.

He added that there is a challenge to utilising clean, renewable energy sources like wind, solar hydrogen and bioenergy to drive economic growth, create jobs and ensure environmental sustainability.

“Transition demands substantial investments, deployment of policies, regulations, infrastructure, enhancements and building of capacity. So, as leaders, policymakers and advocates have the responsibility to turn these challenges into opportunities to foster sustainable economic growth and create a brighter future for generations to come.

“As we progress towards renewables, we should recognise and value the significance of gas as a transition fuel. Gas has a pivotal role in energy transitions as it provides a cleaner alternative to traditional fossil fuel as it has lower carbon emissions and reduced environmental impact,” he said

Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Ikeja Electric, Folake Soetan, also said the transition to renewable energy was imperative for a sustainable future.

She pointed out that commitment to a more sustainable future starts with having a clean energy transmission plan, adding that the short-term plan was to boost the efficiency of the plans.

“Regulation and policies play a huge role in achieving the adoption of renewable energy as it is critical to the development of the economy, generally providing financial incentives for renewable energy projects,” she said.

Soetan stressed that with the right policies and regulations that can attract the necessary investment required in the sector, players would be able to achieve the transition.

She added that long-term strategy aligns with the incorporation of clean energy projects, noting that the need for collaboration among stakeholders in the sector.

But, CEO of Cabota Energy, Raymond Akintayo, said renewable energy like solar is not suitable for industrialization, hence gas engine is a good alternative.

Represented by the company’s Group Chief Operating Officer, Wale Elegbede, he called on the government to do more from the perspective of investment in renewable energy.

He emphasised the need for increased education, training on renewable energy and the creation of courses on renewable future.