logo
add image

Surge in gas price affecting stable power supply

The Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu said the surge in gas price has a profound impact on the power generation subsector.

He said some of the key consequences include increased cost of production, reduced reliability, investment challenges, and environmental concerns when power companies resort to using cheaper but more polluting fuels.

Adelabu said the surge affects not only our economy but also the daily lives of every Nigerian citizen.

He spoke yesterday in Abuja at the African Natural Resource and Energy Investment Summit (AFNIS 2023).

He said: "As we begin conversation on power and renewable energy at this summit today, I want us to discuss a matter of utmost importance that affects not only our economy but also the daily lives of every Nigerian citizen; the impact of high gas prices on power generation in Nigeria. In recent times, we have witnessed a significant increase in the price of natural gas in the global market.

"This surge in gas price has a profound impact on our power generation subsector. Let me mention some of the key consequences which include increased cost of production; reduced reliability; investment challenges; and environmental concerns when power companies resort to using cheaper but more polluting fuels.

"I am using this medium to seek your continued cooperation and collaboration so that we can together implement government policies and programmes in the energy sector for the well-being of Nigerians and the country's economic development. I also encourage all of you to engage actively in the discussions, network with fellow participants, and explore potential collaborations. Together, we can unlock the full potential of Nigeria's energy sector and set the stage for a brighter, more sustainable future.

"You will agree with me that the Nigerian government is making commendable efforts in the power sector to address the long-standing issues of electricity supply. While there is still work to be done, the commitment to improving the power sector is evident.

"The initiatives to expand access to electricity, upgrade infrastructure, promote renewable energy, and encourage private investment are steps in the right direction. With continued dedication and collaboration between the government, private sector and other key stakeholders, Nigeria can look forward to a brighter future with a more robust and reliable power supply."

Senior Director, African Finance Corporation (AFC), Mr. Taiwo Adeniji said one of the key paths towards the achievement of net-zero is significantly scaling up investments in green projects.

He said it is estimated that Africa requires about $250 billion annually to close the climate financing gap. High volume of finance is required for sustainable infrastructure (clean energy and transport systems, green buildings and others).

"One of the key paths towards the achievement of net-zero is significantly scaling up investments in green projects. At AFC we believe the most efficient way to transform the continent, without further aggravating the climate situation, is to increase the amount of green energy available within Africa and at the same time develop the industrial capacity of the continent. . Africa indeed holds the key to the world’s transition to a sustainable future, being the home to significant proportions of the key transition metals, yet today it not only pays the price for the climate indiscretion of the past, but also struggles in accessing the funds it needs to change the course for a better future.

"It is estimated that Africa requires about $250 billion annually to close the climate financing gap. The bulk of these resources are expected to come from the private sector. Thus, African governments have a responsibility to design and implement conducive policies and regulations to attract private investments, particularly in priority sectors for climate action and green growth."

 

Leave Comments

Top