Unlocking Nigeria's Potential: Marine Energy as a Sustainable Alternative

A computer rendering at DCNS units at the planned Groix & Belle Île array. Pic: DCNSPhoto: Administrator/

Renewable energy has emerged as a beacon of hope in the quest for a sustainable and greener future. Among its various forms, marine energy stands as an untapped frontier that offers promising opportunities for countries like Nigeria to diversify their energy sources, reduce carbon emissions, and bolster economic growth. This article explores the concept of renewable energy, specifically focusing on marine energy, and highlights its implications for Nigeria's economy, energy security, environmental conservation, and overall progress.

Marine energy, also known as ocean energy or hydrokinetic energy, harnesses the power of various natural resources from the ocean, including waves, tides, ocean currents, and thermal gradients. These resources can be converted into electricity, providing a sustainable alternative to conventional fossil fuels. Marine energy technologies include wave energy converters, tidal turbines, ocean current turbines, and ocean thermal energy conversion systems.

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Subsidy Removal and the Shift Towards Marine Energy

The recent removal of fossil fuel subsidies in Nigeria has sparked discussions on redirecting these funds towards renewable energy research and development. By investing the monthly N400B from subsidies in marine energy infrastructure, Nigeria can accelerate the transition to cleaner energy sources, reduce government spending, and promote a greener economy. Additionally, this move can incentivize the development of marine energy projects and create an ecosystem conducive to its growth.

Emulating Successful International Models

As renewable energy is comparatively environment friendly, more countries are using Renewable Energy (RE) sources as their energy source (Bhuiyan et al., 2022). Countries like China, the United States, and various European nations have already begun investing in tidal and wave energy projects. Nigeria can draw inspiration from their successes and adapt marine energy technology to its vast coastline, waterways, and oceanic resources. With proper planning, government support, and private sector participation, Nigeria can replicate these achievements and become a leader in marine renewable energy.

Possible Outcome and Success Forecasts for Marine Energy; Implications for Nigeria's Economy

For a coastal nation like Nigeria with rivers Niger and Benue and bound by the Atlantic Ocean to the South-South, marine energy presents a unique opportunity to diversify its energy sources, reduce dependency on imported fossil fuels, and foster a more sustainable energy sector. By investing in marine energy, Nigeria can achieve several important economic and environmental benefits:

Photo from the U.S. Department of Energy

Energy Diversification: Reducing reliance on fossil fuels by incorporating marine energy into the energy mix creates a stable and sustainable foundation for the country's energy sector, reducing risks associated with price volatility and environmental concerns.

Energy Security: Harnessing marine energy can enhance Nigeria's energy security by decreasing its dependence on imported fuels, making the country less vulnerable to supply disruptions and international market fluctuations.

Environmental Benefits: Marine energy aligns with global efforts to combat climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Embracing this technology helps mitigate the environmental impacts associated with traditional fossil fuel usage, leading to cleaner air and healthier ecosystems.

Job Creation and Economic Growth: Developing and deploying marine energy technologies necessitates specialized skills and expertise, stimulating job creation in the renewable energy sector. This investment can also attract foreign direct investment and drive economic growth in related industries.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Integrating marine energy aligns with several United Nations SDGs, including affordable and clean energy (SDG 7) and climate action (SDG 13), reinforcing Nigeria's commitment to achieving these goals.

Overcoming Limitations

While marine energy holds immense potential, Nigeria needs to address certain challenges to unlock its benefits fully. These challenges include initial infrastructure investments, regulatory frameworks, and policy support. By devising comprehensive strategies and incentives, Nigeria can pave the way for successful marine energy projects and realize its sustainable energy goals.

Conclusion

Marine energy stands as a beacon of hope in Nigeria's quest for sustainable energy sources. By embracing this untapped frontier, the nation can diversify its energy mix, enhance energy security, promote economic growth, and contribute to global efforts in combating climate change. With careful planning, strategic investments, and strong policy support, Nigeria can unlock the potential of marine energy, paving the way for a cleaner and greener future. The time is ripe for Nigeria to take bold steps towards embracing marine energy and leading the way to a more sustainable and prosperous tomorrow.

References

Hou J, Zhu X., and Liu P. (2018). Current situation and future projection of marine renewable energy in China. Int J Energy Res. 2018;1–20. https://doi.org/10.1002/er.4218

Haas, K., Fritz, H., French, S., Smith, B., and V. Neary (2016). Assessment of Energy Production Potential from Tidal Streams in the United States. Funded by U.S. DOE Wind & Water Power Program, Atlanta, GA: Georgia Tech Research Corporation.

Hagerman, G., G. Scott, and P. Jacobson (2011). Mapping and Assessment of the United States Ocean Wave Energy. EPRI Tech. Report: 1024637, Palo Alto, CA: Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI).

Zhenya Meng (2015). Renewable Energy Cooperation in Northeast Asia: Incentives, Mechanisms, and Challenges. Energy Strategy Reviews.

https://www.energy.gov/eere/water/advantages-marine-energy

https://www.aplustopper.com/advantages-and-disadvantages-of-wave-energy/