HYDROPOWER; THE IDEAL CHOICE FOR NIGERIA'S SUSTAINABLE ENERGY FUTURE

INTRODUCTION

"Ten is happening! No money, no food, no light, no fuel", has been the anthem of the average Nigerian since late 2022. The recent Fuel Subsidy removal further exacerbates the situation. However, sustainable sources like hydropower energy present hope.

This article expounds on the potential of Hydropower energy as the ideal choice for Nigeria’s sustainable energy future.

1.1 DESCRIPTION OF HYDROPOWER ENERGY

Hydropower energy is a renewable source derived from water moving between elevations, boasting an efficiency of about 90% (water-to-wire). Hydropower facilities utilize dams and turbines to convert water's potential energy into electricity with impressive efficiency. It is cost-effective and durable, providing electricity without carbon emissions.

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The benefits of hydropower have been harnessed for several years. It is not only cost-effective but can also provide power to the grid immediately, serving as a flexible and reliable form of backup power during electricity outages. Its benefits also include flood control, irrigation support, and water supply.

Hydropower and pumped storage play a crucial role in the SDGs. It is renewable and clean, harnessing the water cycle driven by the sun. It also spurs economic growth, creating jobs and boosting local economies. Lastly, it is a domestic energy source, allowing states to generate their energy without reliance on international fuel sources.

FUEL SUBSIDY REMOVAL; THE WAY FORWARD

Fuel subsidy removal has resulted in increased prices of petroleum products. It has caused a ripple effect across the economy, landing a larger part of the population in the absolute poverty line.

Nevertheless, it has resulted in reduced carbon emissions and has freed up resources for other sectors for better economic development. Going forward, it presents an opportunity for reinvestment into sustainable energy sources like hydropower.

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WHY REINVEST SUBSIDIES IN HYDROPOWER?

Nigeria is a country with abundant water resources(215 cubic kilometres/year), but only 19% of Nigeria's population has access to safe drinking water. Investing in Hydropower energy can address both electricity generation and water purification, offering a cost-effective and environmentally-friendly solution to improve the nation’s well-being.

The benefits of hydropower, therefore, make it a viable energy source for investment.

4.1. POSSIBLE OUTCOMES AND SUCCESS FORECAST

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The potential success rate lies in the untapped groundwater. Research estimates put the total exploitable potential of hydropower at over 14,120MW amounting to more than 50,800GWh of electricity annually. Possible outcomes;

Energy security: Reduced reliance on fossil fuels, stable electricity generation.

Economic Growth: Job creation, infrastructure development and energy independence.

Environmental sustainability: Reduced greenhouse gas emissions and improved air quality.

Social impact: Improved water management, food security, and development.

Success depends on careful planning, environmental considerations, and addressing potential impacts on ecosystems and communities to ensure a balanced and sustainable approach.

4.2. POTENTIAL LIMITATIONS

As much as hydropower has promising potential to light up the nation's green switch, it is not without a few limitations, some of which include:

No liquidity. The hydro plants in operation suffer from a lack of adequate funds. They are owed several billions of Naira, which affects their operation and maintenance.
Environmental impacts, which culminate in habitat destruction and altered river ecosystems.
Hydro-dependent grids may be vulnerable to droughts.
Initial investments are capital-intensive.
Community Displacement from reservoir construction.

These issues through sustainable planning and considerations are crucial for successful hydropower adoption.

4.3. SUSTAINABLE PLANS.

To sustainably achieve effective adoption of hydropower energy sources;

Careful policy-making and effective implementation should be at the forefront. The Electrical Act serves as a huge pacesetter. With the power given to individuals, and companies to generate electricity, this energy source can be widely explored.

Embrace Diversity: Various scales of Hydropower projects can be utilized to cater to different needs, such as small hydro plants to achieve rural electrification, whilst engaging the community.

More investment and revenue should be channelled towards Hydropower energy. According to Sirage Abdulahi in a report by Ashionye Ogene, construction of hydro plants may take some years, but its maintenance cost is next to nothing.

Construction of fish-friendly turbines for ecological preservation

In conclusion, Hydropower energy presents a compelling solution for Nigeria’s sustainable future. By addressing challenges, investing wisely and embracing the potential of clean and

renewable energy, Nigeria can pave the way for a greener, prosperous and sustainable nation. Together, let us build a brighter future with Hydropower energy.