The Role of Policy Makers and Institutions in the Energy Sector: The Case of Energy Infrastructure Governance in Nigeria

Edomah, Norbert; Foulds, Chris; Jones, Aled

doi:10.3390/su8080829

Cited by 20 publications

(14 citation statements)

References 25 publications

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“…Energy governance is aimed at addressing some of these challenges. However, the complexity of energy challenges requires the involvement of various actors and stakeholders in proffering solutions that addresses the diverse aspects of these challenges [3,4]. Indeed, addressing these challenges requires a polycentric energy governance system as most energy related challenges cannot be easily addressed within a single agency or regime [5,6].…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

The Governance of Energy Transition: Lessons from the Nigerian Electricity Sector

Edomah

2021

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BackgroundThe rising need for energy transition towards more sustainable energy sources requires a rethink in the governance of energy systems. Arguably, policy makers have very important roles in governing transitions in any given society through established institutional frameworks. It has also been argued that energy infrastructure choices are determined by institutional dynamics and structures. However, what are the influences underlying changes in energy systems and what lessons can we draw from them for the governance of energy transition? This study focuses on understanding the dynamics of energy transition governance within the Nigerian electricity sector with the aim of drawing lessons that impact on energy transition and energy systems change.MethodsUsing explorative research tools, this research explores the dynamics of energy transition governance within the Nigerian electricity sector with the aim of drawing lessons that impact on energy transition and energy systems change. Data from primary and secondary sources in documentary archives and other published sources that links to the Nigerian historical energy infrastructure provisions were used for analysis in order to draw lessons on energy transition dynamics in Nigeria.ResultsThe study revealed that there were three important factors that had a direct impact on energy transition and energy systems change within Nigeria’s electricity sector. These are: (1) Changing perceptions and goals (during the period leading up to Nigeria’s independence, 1890 – 1960s); (2) Direct government interventions in energy infrastructure provisions (1940s – 1970s); and (3) Major changes in market rules (from 2005 and beyond).ConclusionsThe study concludes by highlighting that: (1) there is a need for government institutions to tackle energy access issues that addresses the needs of the poor; (2) it is imperative to explore technological options that are more sustainable; and (3) there is a need to address energy consumption patterns that are more energy intensive. Indeed, available energy resources, technological changes in electricity supply systems, and the ‘geographies of energy’ are major factors that influence energy production and consumption dynamics. All of these needs to be considered as energy decisions are primarily political choices.

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Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

The Governance of Energy Transition: Lessons from the Nigerian Electricity Sector

Edomah

2021

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“…This highlights the increasing role of public institutions and powerful actors (policy makers) in the governance of energy resources and infrastructure provision (Edomah et al, 2016b;Ulli-Beer, 2013). …”

Section: Discussion Conclusion and Policy Implicationsmentioning

confidence: 99%

“…It can be argued that the root cause of some of the intra-country induced influences, such as, competencies and recruiting experts, stems from: nepotism arising from tribalism, favouritism for political party affiliates; and corruption. Indeed, the case of unwritten rules and procedures provides a fertile ground for breeding and institutionalizing corruption in the sector (Edomah et al, 2016b) .…”

Section: Discussion Conclusion and Policy Implicationsmentioning

confidence: 99%

Policy making and energy infrastructure change: A Nigerian case study of energy governance in the electricity sector

2017

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This paper focusses on investigating the underlying mechanisms and influences of the policy decision making process and how it affects and impacts the governance of the Nigerian energy industry, and energy infrastructure provisions. In-depth semistructured interviews were used; all interviewees had been involved, directly or indirectly, in energy infrastructure policy decisions in Nigeria. Five key themes subsequently emerged as salient intra-country induced influences that were affecting the governance and performance of the Nigerian energy sector: (1) competenciesi.e. practical knowledge of energy policy making; (2) expectations -i.e. past, present, and forecasted future expectations from the energy industry; (3) legislation -i.e. institutionalized (and unwritten) rules/procedures; (4) future visions -i.e. future vision of the energy industry/energy market; (5) recruiting experts -i.e. recruiting new energy and public policy makers. In addition, three major inter-country induced influences were also identified: (1) the changing dynamics of international and foreign aid; (2) the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals; and (3) the Paris Agreements on Climate Change. The paper concludes by highlighting the policy implications of these influences, and the consequences for policy makers in the governance of the energy industry in ensuring a secured energy future.

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“…For instance, [24] identified cost and pricing barriers; market performance barriers, and legal and regulatory barriers as impediments of sustainable energy development in Nigeria. As such, building on the above premise, it is strongly recommended that the policy-making processes should fast track provision of energy infrastructure through: granting access to data; regulations; and issuance of licenses [25]. The authors cautioned that by failing to do so, the Nigerian government will end up financing corruption in the energy sector; injecting economic delusion; and having uncontrolled growth in export-based energy demand [21].…”

Section: An Overview Of Nigeria's Energy Crisis and Potentials For Trmentioning

confidence: 99%

Not There Yet: Mapping Inhibitions to Solar Energy Utilisation by Households in African Informal Urban Neighbourhoods

2020

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The average household access to electricity in Nigeria is estimated at four hours per day. This paradoxical energy crisis in a top oil and gas exporting country makes an interesting case for local and global players in the sustainable energy agenda. The current study showcases experiences of households that installed and use solar photovoltaic (PV) technologies in urban Africa. It identifies the key sociotechnical transition issues that shape the households’ solar energy adoption strategies. To get a clear picture of the situation, the study focuses on the Kano urban agglomeration—a densely populated city with high economic activities. To answer the research question, the sampled respondents shared their experiences via questionnaire and interviews. Similarly, field observations guided the research team to identify patterns of household solar energy use, and how urban planning, building, and roofing types inhibit solar energy utilisation. From the results of the study, it appeared that households use solar energy for lighting, energising rechargeable appliances, and cooling of houses. Nevertheless, none of the respondents use solar photovoltaics (PVs) for cooking—the biggest consumer of fuelwood in Nigeria. Finally, this study is optimistic that despite the challenges identified, the transition to clean energy security in Africa is achievable through coordinated efforts of people, industry, and governments. The transition to renewables by households promises significant changes that can lever the mainstreaming of the UN Sustainable Development Goals-SDG no. 7.

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The Role of Policy Makers and Institutions in the Energy Sector: The Case of Energy Infrastructure Governance in Nigeria

Cited by 20 publications

References 25 publications

The Governance of Energy Transition: Lessons from the Nigerian Electricity Sector

The Governance of Energy Transition: Lessons from the Nigerian Electricity Sector

Policy making and energy infrastructure change: A Nigerian case study of energy governance in the electricity sector

Not There Yet: Mapping Inhibitions to Solar Energy Utilisation by Households in African Informal Urban Neighbourhoods

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