Harnessing bioenergy for sustainable and balanced energy generation in Nigeria

Ugwu, Tochukwu Nicholas; Madubuike, Henry; Nwachukwu, Augusta Anuli; Ukachukwu, Chidinma Ogochukwu; Nwajagu, Nnenna; Ogbulie, Tochukwu Ekwutosi

Abstract

Sustainable energy generation plays a key role in a nation’s development. In Nigeria, energy is mainly generated from fossil sources such as natural gas reserves. However, fossil sources pose several environmental and health risks. The use of fossil fuel is characterized by the release of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, with negative impacts on land and water environments. Furthermore, the increasing human population and increasing scale of industrialization are placing a demand on energy generation in order to remedy the persistent energy shortages currently experienced in the country. In this study, we review alternative platforms for energy generation, with a focus on bioenergy as a dependable option for balancing electricity generation in Nigeria. We highlight the technical processes of bioenergy conversion, the economic impact of bioenergy mixes, and the potential for biogas to complement Nigeria’s national grid. Challenges such as inadequate technology, a lack of investment, and policy limitations are considered, along with recommendations for advancing bioenergy adoption. This study concludes that mixing bioenergy into Nigeria’s energy system can improve the availability of electricity and reduce dependence on fossil fuels, thereby facilitating a cleaner environment and viable economic growth.

• Journal Article Type: Review
• Acceptance Date: Mar 17, 2025
• Online Publication Date: Apr 17, 2025
• Deposit Date: May 9, 2025
• Publicly Available Date: May 9, 2025
• Journal: Academia Green Energy
• Electronic ISSN: 2998-3665
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 2
• Issue: 2
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.20935/acadenergy7593