Table 2.
Leveraging on renewable energy technology for intensifying renewables in Nigeria.
| S/N | Renewable Energy Technologies | Benefits | Drawbacks | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | Wind Energy | Harnessing wind power provides an economically viable and environmentally friendly method of electricity generation, despite its reliance on weather patterns. One of the notable advantages of utilizing wind energy is its simplicity and durability. Wind turbines have a lifespan of over 15 years and require minimal maintenance, eliminating the need for significant additional investments during that period. This long-term reliability ensures a cost-effective and sustainable energy solution for electricity production. | The presence of birds and the potential risk of bird mortality are among the negative outcomes linked to wind energy. | Wind power plays a significant role in generating clean energy, making a valuable contribution to reducing air pollutants and carbon emissions. |
| 2. | Biomass Energy | Biomass energy harnesses the potential of organic materials, such as wood, agricultural waste, and animal waste, to provide a sustainable and environmentally friendly solution. It not only promotes cleanliness and pollution mitigation but also contributes to the preservation of a greener ecosystem, fostering a harmonious coexistence with nature. | The dynamic nature of biomass energy, stemming from its diverse composition, results in inherent variability and challenges in its consistency. | The utilization of biogas in Nigeria presents promising opportunities for powering vehicles and providing electricity to remote communities. With its rich renewable energy resources, the country has the potential to address its energy challenges effectively. Despite the abundance of suitable fruits and plants for biofuel production, Nigeria has yet to fully capitalize on the commercial value of this untapped potential. |
| 3. | Fuel-Cell Technology | By harnessing the potential of fuel cell technology, Nigeria can meet its electricity demands with a reliable, eco-friendly, and sustainable energy source. This innovative approach offers an opportunity for the country to address its energy needs effectively and contribute to a greener and more sustainable future. | One of the primary challenges in fuel cell technology lies in the effective management of water production during operation. This aspect poses a significant hurdle that needs to be addressed to ensure the optimal functioning and efficiency of fuel cells. Proper water management strategies and innovative solutions are essential to overcome this challenge and maximize the potential of fuel cell technology. | Renewable energy sources have the remarkable potential to meet the global energy demand in its entirety. With their vast availability and environmentally friendly attributes, renewables offer a viable and sustainable solution to address the ever-growing need for energy on a global scale. By harnessing the power of solar, wind, hydro, geothermal, and other renewable sources, we can ensure a reliable and clean energy supply for current and future generations. The utilization of renewables not only mitigates the impacts of climate change but also fosters energy independence, stimulates economic growth, and promotes a healthier and more resilient planet. Embracing renewable energy on a worldwide scale is a crucial step towards achieving a sustainable and prosperous future for all. |
| 4. | Hydropower | Hydropower is a renewable energy form that harnesses the kinetic energy of flowing water to generate electricity. It involves a sophisticated system comprising embankment or tank, a penstock tube, a water piston, and a generator. As water flows through the turbine edges, the potential energy is converted into mechanical energy, causing the mechanical shaft to rotate and drive the generator located in a powerhouse. The benefits of hydropower are numerous and well-recognized, including its environmental cleanliness, cost-effectiveness, and reliable power generation. To fully realize the potential of hydropower in promoting energy security and sustainability, strong political commitment is essential. Governments and policymakers must demonstrate unwavering determination to advance hydropower projects and create an enabling environment for their development. This entails implementing supportive policies, providing necessary infrastructure, and fostering partnerships between public and private entities. By leveraging hydropower's immense potential, countries can enhance their energy security, lessen dependence on relic fuels, and contribute to a greener and additional sustainable future. |
Hydroelectric projects generally demand substantial initial financial resources due to the extensive infrastructure involved, and their construction phase can commonly span from 5 to 10 years. Furthermore, these projects may potentially heighten the risk of seismic activities and other natural calamities. | Hydroelectric power plays a vital role as a supplementary energy source to complement other renewables like solar and wind power, creating a well-rounded energy composition that promotes a harmonized blend of resources. |
| 5. | Geothermal Energy | Geothermal energy involves the transformation of heat and steam into electricity | In spite of its notable effectiveness, this method showcases minimal detrimental impacts on the environment. | As the rapid depletion of fossil fuels continues, Nigeria is presented with compelling opportunities to embrace renewable energy sources, paving the way towards a sustainable and low-carbon future and promoting an environmentally friendly atmosphere. |
| 6. | Nuclear Energy | As an advanced power generation technology, nuclear energy provides a lasting solution for energy security regardless of global economic conditions, guaranteeing long-term sustainability in the energy sector. | Nuclear power accidents carry significant risks that have enduring implications for human health, and the construction costs associated with nuclear power plants are substantial. | Nuclear energy represents a viable and sustainable option for the generation of clean energy that can endure over time. |
| 7. | Solar Energy | Photovoltaic technology utilizes the energy of sunlight to generate electricity, presenting an eco-friendly and pollution-free energy source. Furthermore, its extensive accessibility and dependence on an unlimited resource, namely the sun, render it a universally attainable solution. | The initial capital investment necessary for procuring photovoltaic systems, panels, and solar cells can be significant. The economic viability of implementing this technology extensively is affected by meteorological elements. | Solar energy technology presents an optimal solution for providing electricity to rural communities located in remote regions where traditional power grids are not accessible. |
Sources: Authors created the Table.