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Wind energy is a renewable and sustainable energy source that has been used for centuries by harnessing the power of the wind to generate electricity. In recent times, it has gained significant prominence as a key component of the global energy mix due to its environmental advantages and potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. As technology advances, wind power continues to play a vital role in the transition towards a greener and more sustainable energy future which facilitates the achievement of the SDGs 1, 3, 7, 11, 13 and 17.
HOW DOES WIND ENERGY WORK?
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Wind energy is harnessed by using wind turbines, having large blades that capture the kinetic energy of the wind, causing them to rotate. The rotating blades are connected to a generator, which converts the mechanical energy into electricity. The generated electricity is then transmitted through power lines to homes and businesses for use. Wind energy is a renewable and sustainable source of power, as it relies on the Earth's natural wind patterns.
The removal of fuel subsidies has some significant and wide-ranging ecological, economic, and social impacts in Nigeria.
Ecological: Fuel subsidy removal may increase demand for firewood and charcoal as alternative energy sources, which encourages deforestation and negatively impact forest ecosystems.
Economic: Businesses and industries heavily reliant on fuel for operations, such as transportation, manufacturing, and agriculture may experience higher production costs due to a rise in fuel price, potentially affecting profit and overall economic growth.
Social: Social unrest and public protest may arise from fuel subsidy removal, particularly by citizens who perceive it as an additional financial burden and foresee the potential hardship it can cause.
The combination of sustainability, environmental benefits, and cost-effectiveness makes wind energy a leading choice for transitioning to a greener and more sustainable energy future. These include Abundance and Predictability, No Greenhouse Gas Emissions, Land Use Efficiency, Low Operating Costs, Fast Installation and Scalability, Cost Competitiveness, and Low water usage.
JUSTIFICATION FOR RE-INVESTMENT OF SUBSIDIES INTO WIND ENERGY
The re-investment of subsidies into wind energy in Nigeria can be justified by some compelling reasons which include: Sustainable and Clean Energy, Improved Air Quality and Health Benefits, Global Commitments and Support, Job Creation and Economic Growth, Long-Term Cost Savings, Energy Security, Technology and Knowledge Transfer.
By embracing wind energy and using subsidies to support its development, Nigeria can address environmental challenges, create new economic opportunities, and build a more sustainable and secure energy future for its citizens.
OUTCOMES OF JUSTIFICATION
Success Forecast: The success forecast for re-investing subsidies into wind energy in Nigeria is promising, but it will depend on several factors and effective implementation. These include: Government Commitment, Policy and Regulatory Framework, Investment and Funding, Stakeholder Collaboration, Capacity Building and Expertise, Public Awareness and Acceptance.
Potential Limitations: Although wind energy offers numerous advantages, there are potential limitations and challenges that need to be considered, such as Resource Assessment, Upfront Investments, Noise and Visual Impact, Grid Integration, and Energy Storage. Addressing these potential limitations requires careful planning, sound policies, technological advancements, and collaboration between stakeholders.
SUSTAINABLE DESIGN PLAN FOR THE ADOPTION OF WIND ENERGY IN NIGERIA
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By following this sustainable design plan, Nigeria can harness its abundant wind resources and foster the adoption of wind energy as a key component of its energy mix.
WAY FORWARD
Powering Nigeria's future with wind energy demands a swift combination of policy action, investment, and cutting-edge technology while fostering community involvement and global cooperation. Nigeria's wind energy transformation hinges on bold policy implementation, funding, technological advancement, and uniting communities, governments, and international allies in a shared green vision.
In conclusion, adopting wind energy in Nigeria is essential for achieving sustainable development, combating climate change, and ensuring energy security. The country's rich wind resources and potential for technological advancements make wind energy a promising and environmentally friendly solution to meet its increasing energy needs. The FUTURE of GREEN ENERGY is NOW- Harness the power of WIND ENERGY and work toward a low-carbon, sustainable future. The following can be recommended: Continued Investment, Research and Innovation, Capacity Building, Public Participation, Policy Stability, Hybrid Energy Systems, Environmental Protection, Monitoring and Evaluation, Government Support, and International Collaboration.
References
https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2022/03/solar-wind-power-renewable-energy-climate-change/
https://www.energy.gov/eere/wind/advantages-and-challenges-wind-energy
www.vedantu.com (https://www.vedantu.com/question-answer/are-the-limitations-of-obtaining-energy-from-class-10-physics-cbse-5f7c1932c382470a119bd9c1)
Dallas Lloyd (2014): Wind Energy-Advantages and Disadvantages, Stanford Course. (http://large.stanford.edu/courses/2014/ph240/lloyd2/)
https://gwec.net/global-wind-report-2021/
U.S. Department of Energy - Wind Energy Technologies Office: https://www.energy.gov/eere/wind/wind-energy-technologies-office
European Wind Energy Association (WindEurope): https://windeurope.org/
International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) - Wind Energy: https://www.irena.org/wind
National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL): https://www.nrel.gov/wind/
CONTRIBUTORS:
Muhammad Sambo AHMED, Marvellous Toluwalase OYESOMI, Paul OLUWASONA, Charles EGBUNE, Elizabeth OWOLABI, Oluwaferanmi ADEKUNLE, Oluwatomisin OLATOYE, Stephen NWOKEDI, Titilope OTUOGBAI, Gift IFOKWE.
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