Solar energy applications and development in Nigeria: Drivers and barriers

Ohunakin, O.S. and Adaramola, Muyiwa S and Oyewola, Olanrewaju M. and Fagbenle, R. O. (2014) Solar energy applications and development in Nigeria: Drivers and barriers. RenewableandSustainableEnergyReviews. pp. 294-301.

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Abstract

In this study,current perspectives of solar energy utilization as a renewable energy option in Nigeria are examined and discussed from the stand point of sustainable development.The country being a world crude oil and natural gas producer,is over-dependent on the seenergy sourcesforelectricitygeneration and otherenergyapplications.Thishascurrentlyputthecountryatariskofimpendingenergycrisesin view ofthefastdiminishingfossilreserves,inadequaterefining capacitytomeetdomesticconsumption and seriouscasesofenergyinsecurityinrestiveregionswhereexploitationsexist.Inspiteofthevast fossil basedenergyreserves,ameagerelectricityproductioncapacitythatisputat4517.6MWasat December 2012isgeneratedtosupporttheeconomyofateemingpopulationofapproximately170 million people.Nigeriaisnaturallyendowedwithabundantdepositofrenewableenergyresourcesof which solarenergyfromtheSun(beingtheworld0s mostabundantandpermanentenergysource)has for decadesbeenenjoyingveryhighlevelutilizationbyruraldwellersforagriculturalprocessingsinthe country.Itisvastlydepositedwithanestimated17,459,215.2millionMJ/day of solar energy falling on the country0s 923,768km2 land area(approximaterangeof12.6MJ/m2/day in the coastal region to about 25.2 MJ/m2/day in the far north). The different applications to which solar resources have been put and the extent of utilization(including details of existing projects)in the country were thoroughly investigated and discussed.The possible motivations for extensive development of solar energy conversion systems in Nigeria area l so discussed and some of the barriers and challenges are presented. Step sand policy measures to over come the barriers and facilitates the utilization of this resource are suggested

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Solar energy Electricity Solar radiation Nigeria
Subjects:	Q Science > QC Physics T Technology > T Technology (General) T Technology > TJ Mechanical engineering and machinery
Divisions:	Faculty of Engineering, Science and Mathematics > School of Engineering Sciences
Depositing User:	Mrs Patricia Nwokealisi
Date Deposited:	16 Nov 2016 11:18
Last Modified:	16 Nov 2016 11:18
URI:	http://eprints.covenantuniversity.edu.ng/id/eprint/7398

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