The International Renewable Energy Conference (IREC) was held October 7-9 in Abuja, Nigeria where delegates gathered to discuss how to “exploit renewable energy opportunities in Africa,” with a notable focus on Nigeria.
The conference included numerous presentations on policy regulation for renewable energy, micro financing schemes, carbon finance, and renewable technologies, just to name a few.
The conference brought to light the problems facing the country’s ability to make progress in the renewable energy sector. As IREC Chairman Professor A.M.A. Imevbore said, “Financing and education are major issues in Nigeria and steps have not been made in this area.”
The main focus, however, was implementing various strategies in Nigeria to combat the energy crisis. Although a master plan has been initiated, many feel as though no progress has been made. Imevbore stated, “We are not only focusing to move forward. We have goals, contact, and master plan, but nobody is increasing.”
And as alternative energy is a focal point, the waste to wealth management presentation was very valuable. Pictures provided by Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) were provided showing the incredible amount of waste in Lagos, and what the organization is doing to tackle the problem. LAWMA Managing Director Ola Oresanya said by 2011, 50% of waste would be turned into compost via the Jebba Paper Mill and Ojo Plastic Recycling plant. While there is not a suitable technology to handle toxic waste in the area now, Oresanya noted that the collection rate has increased by 75% to 80%.
Growing crops to be used for biofuels production in rural areas with a particular focus on jatropha was presented as another viable option for all of Africa. Jatropha crops have already been planted in Ghana and other nations, and can be produced in countries with arid climates such as in Egypt. Jatropha also offers possibilities for use in a clean development mechanism
Summing up the goal of the conference, Bolade Soremekun, Managing Director and CEO of BAS Associates Consulting Ltd., stated “This decade sees all the money going to green technology. There’s a lot I want to do, but you can’t do it alone. Awareness is bringing people together.”