Energy commission seeks collaboration to improve National energy efficiency

The Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) has emphasised the need for collaboration among stakeholders and key agencies of government to improve national energy efficiency and conservation in the country. 

Acting Director-General of the Commission, Mr. Joseph Sunday Olayande, who stated this at a workshop on industrial energy efficiency policy and regulatory formation, said that a collaborative approach will help strengthen the National Industrial Energy Efficiency (IEE) Policies and Regulatory Frameworks, and foster the adoption of Energy Management Systems Standards (EnMS/ESO/ISO 50001) across Nigeria.

Olayande explained that the scope of the project encompasses various sectors of the economy, necessitating a comprehensive approach involving stakeholders such as the ministries of mines and steel, agriculture, petroleum, energy/power, transport, finance, works, ICT, science and technology, as well as the private sector. 

The ECN, selected by the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) to host one of the project’s working groups, seeks to strengthen National Industrial Energy Efficiency Policies and Regulatory Frameworks in alignment with UNIDO’s standards.

Olayande highlighted the disparities in energy infrastructure, with only one in five Africans having access to electricity and a limited percentage having access to clean water and irrigation facilities. These shortcomings impact sectors like agriculture, transportation and manufacturing, emphasising the need for comprehensive energy efficiency policies.

Representatives from UNIDO acknowledged the significance of the workshop in addressing factors that disrupt energy efficiency in Nigeria. The workshop is expected to develop a long-term training strategy for policy makers, empowering them to integrate energy efficiency best practices into the day-to-day operations of Nigerian manufacturing industries.

A representative from UNIDO, Oluyomi Banjo recognised energy efficiency’s potential to optimise energy security and highlighted UNIDO’s commitment to collaborating with Nigeria to achieve efficiency benefits.

The Director of linkages, research and consultancy at the ECN, Engr. Okon Ekpenyong presented samples of energy-efficiency policy initiatives. He emphasised that policies should be adapted to local contexts, as what works well in one setting may not be as effective in another.

He stressed that to create an environment conducive to a national energy efficiency programme, policies should be enacted at the appropriate levels (national, state, local) to remove barriers and encourage the development and implementation of energy efficiency practices.

Also, a representative of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Clara Nmabaraye highlighted the energy efficiency sector’s potential for women empowerment, youth development and national growth. She stressed that energy management policy is key to harnessing these opportunities.