I am from Delta state, Nigeria. I have pondered upon the increasing scarcity of our fuel sources, the inflated prices and the scary news about its limited availability. I have grown to love electricity, God bless my parents, if I ever did, I can't remember experiencing power shortages for extended periods, so I can't imagine a reality without beautiful electricity. My concern for this scarcity seems to be increasing with my age, as responsibility draws near.
What's happening with Nigeria's Power
Growing up, we refered to the power distribution company as NEPA (National Electricity Power Authority) I can't say much about its affordability because even till date I can understand those long scrolls with tiny faded inscription sent as bills, but judging from the complaints from my folks and neighbours, it wasn't available nor cheap not even after rebranding to Power holding Company Nigeria, as these acronyms still had comical meanings to Nigeria. From Never Expect Power Always to Please Hold You Candle Now.
Reports on Wikipedia has it that Nigeria generates electricity from hydroelectric sources 17.59% and fossil fuel power plants. It also speculates that as at 2014 the capacity of total installed plants was 7445 MW and power demand was expected to rise to 12800 MW in 2015.
With such scarcity of power it is expected that the price will be high. Since 2001 cost of electricity has more than doubled in some areas of the. Yes, the recent reformation of the power companies that is breaking apart into different states and regions have helped tremendously in distribution, there's still a long way to go. Nigerians also have to be aware about their power consumptions, some people will just like to see their light bulb on in the afternoon as if they cannot see.
Sustainable Development
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My next concern is about the fact that so much money is still being invested into energy generation from fossil fuels- it would be nice to get an explanation to justify this-
when sustainable means are available to take care of if not all, a higher percentage of our power needs. Of all the forms of renewable energy I have developed a lot of love for wind energy growing up. It is evidently the most fun to watch - not like the static solar panels or the smelly biogas, wind turbines are full of life. My interest for renewable energy has reached a new peak recently as I started my service year in Adamawa.
I checked the place out on Google to find that majority of its population are into farming. Oh I was so excited. Excitement quickly turned to disappointment on getting here to find almost all the farms deserted waiting for raining season in April, how depressing. I think we have passed the age of seasonal farming what with the ever increasing demand for food.
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My model example when it come to sustainable power utilisation is Carlifornia. The state only as big as half of Nigeria generates 80% of its power needs from wind. Emulating carlifornia is the big dream with all the constraints around grid systems and redistribution, but I think this is worth a lot of research as there are reports showing that Nigerians spend up to $5bn annually to power generators.
I hear some of my friends say that even if fuel price increases to N500 per litre Nigerians will still buy. I pray thee my brothers ignorance is not bliss in all situations. Although wind power is my much appraised love, I can't deny the fact of a superior source of energy, Solar energy.
Currently the cost of solar power is .60$ per watt. Meaning that we will spend a total of $7.7b to power Nigeria with solar energy. Solar PVs has no moving parts so little or no cost is spent on maintenance - think about all the times you've had to call mechanic for your gen. Also this is expected to have a life span of 20 years. $8bn for 20 years of solar compared to $100bn for running our generators, do you still think ignorance is bliss here. Well you can't because now you know
So what am I saying...
Oh Nigeria
So blessed with riches
You are my pride
Beaming with life
Oh Nigeria,
My home and my love
Misguided and misjudged
But ever so strong
Let us live sustainably choose renewable energy today!
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Thank you for reading through. Tell me what you think.