Nigeria is on a challenging journey toward transforming its energy landscape, with a significant reliance on thermal energy generation, which currently accounts for 80% of its energy mix. Despite this heavy reliance, less than 60% of the population has access to electricity. To address these pressing issues, Nigeria has developed an energy transition plan aimed at achieving net-zero emissions by leveraging renewable energy sources. However, the effectiveness of these renewable sources is often limited by seasonal variations, leading to periods of low energy production that cannot meet the increasing demand.
A promising solution to this challenge is the integration of Power-to-X (PtX) technology, which offers a way to store and utilize renewable energy more effectively. PtX technology allows for the conversion of renewable energy into various forms, including hydrogen, which can be stored and used later when energy availability decreases. This capability is particularly crucial for Nigeria, where energy demand continues to grow amidst an intermittent supply of renewable resources.
Mahlon Kida Marvin, a lead author affiliated with the Department of Chemical Engineering at the University of Maiduguri, emphasizes the potential of PtX technology in Nigeria’s energy sector. He notes, “Despite Nigeria’s significant potential for implementing PtX initiatives, the country currently falls behind in technology deployment and viable production pathways for sustainable PtX implementation.” This gap can be attributed to a lack of supportive policies, frameworks, and financing schemes needed for infrastructure development, especially for long-term energy storage.
The commercial implications of adopting PtX technology in Nigeria are substantial. As the country diversifies its energy mix, there are opportunities for investments in green hydrogen production, which could serve as a key energy carrier. However, the current high production costs of green hydrogen pose a challenge for immediate deployment. Nevertheless, the ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure and policy frameworks could pave the way for a more sustainable energy future.
The research published in Sustainable Energy Research highlights the critical need for a transition strategy that includes adequate storage capacity to mitigate the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources. By addressing these challenges and harnessing the potential of PtX technology, Nigeria could not only enhance its energy security but also promote long-term sustainability and efficiency in energy distribution.
