The Major Energy Marketers Association of Nigeria (MEMAN) has advocated for the adoption of ethanol as a biofuel to help reduce energy poverty and emissions in the country. According to MEMAN, Nigeria could save an estimated $7.4 billion annually by tapping into its vast ethanol resources as a supplement to petrol.
What is Ethanol Biofuel? Ethanol is a renewable biofuel commonly used as a substitute or additive to petrol in vehicles. It is produced through the fermentation of plant materials such as cassava, corn, sugarcane, and others. MEMAN noted that blending ethanol into biofuel as a transformative energy source has the potential to reshape Nigeria’s energy landscape and pave the way for a sustainable economy.
Nigeria’s Potential for Ethanol Production Experts who spoke at MEMAN’s recent quarterly press webinar and engagement revealed that Nigeria possesses the necessary resources to exploit its ethanol-to-biofuel potential. In a presentation titled ‘Ethanol as a Biofuel’, Senior Consultant at Africa Practice, Agwu Ojowu, highlighted the significant economic benefits of developing the country’s ethanol industry.
“Nigeria’s cassava production, standing at 63 million metric tonnes annually, represents 26 per cent of the global total. However, with 40 per cent of this yield lost each year, there is a significant economic loss estimated at $7.4 billion. Developing the ethanol industry could mitigate these losses, enhance economic stability, and capitalise on the depreciating currency to reduce costs,” Ojowu stated.
Benefits of Ethanol Biofuel Ojowu emphasised that ethanol’s higher octane rating improves fuel quality and helps meet environmental standards by reducing sulphur content and greenhouse gas emissions. These attributes make ethanol a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to petrol, aligning with Nigeria’s climate commitments.
Nigeria’s History with Ethanol Recounting Nigeria’s foray into ethanol, Ojowu recalled the 2007 biofuels policy, which mandated a 10 per cent ethanol blend in fuel. “Despite initial challenges, including the suspension of the policy in 2008 due to blending inconsistencies, the potential of ethanol remains significant. Ethanol’s cost-effectiveness compared to petrol has historically led to economic arbitrage, suggesting that a well-regulated biofuel market could be economically advantageous,” he said.
Ojowu added that ethanol presents numerous benefits, including economic, environmental, and agricultural advantages, without necessitating vehicle modifications.
MEMAN’s Commitment to Renewable Energy The Executive Secretary of MEMAN, Clement Isong, also emphasised the role of renewable energy in addressing Nigeria’s energy poverty. He highlighted the importance of a diverse energy mix, including biofuels, solar, hydroelectricity, and wind energy, to create a balanced and sustainable energy future.
“MEMAN is committed to engaging with industry stakeholders to advocate for energy solutions that meet Nigeria’s needs,” Isong said. He expressed optimism about the future of renewable energy in Nigeria and the continued efforts to enhance press engagement and industry collaboration.