RENEWABLE ENERGY AS AN ALTERNATIVE TO ELECTRIC POWER SUSTAINABILITY IN NIGERIA: THE NEED FOR A LEGAL PATHWAY

Abstract

Over the years, Nigeria has faced the problem of inadequate electricity generation and supply. Fossil fuel has been the mainstream of energy supply and a major source of revenue to the Federal Government of Nigeria, despite being an un renewable and unsustainable source of energy which has led to emission of greenhouse gases which is unsustainable in Nigeria’s power sector. The country is yet to tap into the full benefits of renewable energies after privatization of its power sector in spite of the new global evolvement in energy sector and the growing demands for renewable energy sources, which is cheaper and more environmentally friendly compared to fossil fuel and its allied products. The research aims to examine the potential of renewable energy in Nigeria and the need for a robust legal framework on renewable energy to be effectively set up if we intend to achieve adequate electric power supply in a more sustainable way in Nigeria. This work concludes by recommending the need for a stringent enforcement of energy regulatory policies with incentives for utilization of renewable energy sources for rapid growth in the industry as it is now considered a viable solution to the energy challenges of countries including Nigeria. A specific and robust legal framework on utilization and growth of renewable energy needs to be adequate to meet the social, economic and environmental development needs of the country.