FG canvasses for production of electric vehicles, renewable energy, others
The federal government announced that it would leverage cleaner energy to promote environmentally-conscious industries, such as renewable energy, electric vehicles, and sustainable agriculture as part of its energy transition strategy.
It said the industries, in turn, will provide opportunities for diversification and economic growth.
The Minister of State, Petroleum Resources (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri gave the hint during the week in Abuja at the ongoing Nigeria Institution of Petroleum Engineers (NIPetE) 2023 International Conference themed: “Research, Technology, and Innovation: Imperatives for Energy Transition.”
He urged support for the planned industries by encouraging investment and promoting policies that promote the growth of technology-based solutions across multiple sectors.
The Minister, who was represented by the Director, Distribution and Utilization of the Midstream and Downstream Department of the Ministry, Augustine Okwudiafor, tasked researchers and innovators to lead the energy transition journey by coming up with quality research, cutting-edge technology and ultimately fostering innovation.
He noted that technology has the potential to transform the energy sector, making it more efficient, cleaner, and environmentally friendly.
“Embracing digitalisation, artificial intelligence, and automation can optimise hydrocarbon economic recovery, improve resource management, lower operational costs, improve petroleum data gathering and reduce environmental impacts,” he said.
According to him, collaboration with research and development financiers was crucial on the path to a sustainable energy future.
“To support the development and commercialization of innovative technologies, we must collaborate closely with universities, research institutions, and the private sector.”
He said, “These collaborations can lead to the creation of solutions that enhance resource recovery, reduce emissions, and improve the overall sustainability of our energy industry.”
The minister revealed that in 2022, the profile distribution of technologies granted full and pilot test approval in the upstream sector was as follows: asset and integrity management accounted for 32 percent, metering for 29 percent, software monitoring for 21 percent, and subsurface production for 18 percent.
In her welcome address, the National Chairman, Nigeria Institution of Petroleum Engineers, Prisca Kanebi, said the conference was put in place to address the existential challenges posed by climate change to the country.
She maintained that the global community has responded by uniting on the platform of the United Nations Climate change treaty and setting ambitious net-zero goals to safeguard the planet for future generations, and Nigeria would not be an exception.
She said the discussions at the conference and beyond will revolve around innovation, collaboration and strategic planning, adding that the conference will explore cutting-edge technologies, renewable energy solutions, and sustainable practices within the oil and gas sector.
“We will consider policies, regulations, and incentives that can guide the Country towards a cleaner, more sustainable energy landscape.”
