The Major Energies Marketers Association of Nigeria (MEMAN) has indicated that ethanol has the potential to be utilized as a biofuel, aiding Nigeria in alleviating energy poverty and cutting down emissions….CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>

During a recent quarterly press webinar and discussion, MEMAN highlighted that leveraging Nigeria’s ethanol resources to supplement petrol could result in annual savings of approximately $7.4 billion.

Ethanol, a biofuel often used as a substitute or additive for petrol in vehicles, is usually produced by fermenting plant materials such as cassava, corn, and sugarcane.

According to MEMAN, incorporating ethanol into biofuel can significantly transform Nigeria’s energy sector and contribute to the development of a sustainable economy.

Experts at the webinar highlighted Nigeria’s capability to harness its ethanol resources for biofuel production.

In a presentation titled “Ethanol as a Biofuel,” Agwu Ojowu, a Senior Consultant with Africa Practice, emphasized that advancing the ethanol industry could save the country approximately $7.4 billion annually.

Ojowu stated:

“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 $7.4bn. Developing the ethanol industry could mitigate these losses, enhance economic stability, and capitalise on the depreciating currency to reduce costs.”

He highlighted that ethanol’s higher octane rating enhances fuel quality and aids in meeting environmental standards by lowering sulfur content and greenhouse gas emissions.

According to him, these characteristics make ethanol an affordable and eco-friendly alternative to petrol, supporting Nigeria’s climate goals.

Reflecting on the past, Ojowu noted that Nigeria’s journey with ethanol started with the 2007 biofuels policy, which required a 10% ethanol blend in fuel.

He added:

“Despite initial challenges, including the suspension of the policy in 2008, because of 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.”

Ojowu further explained that ethanol offers a range of benefits, encompassing economic, environmental, and agricultural advantages, all while not requiring any modifications to existing vehicles.

Clement Isong, the Executive Secretary of MEMAN, stressed the significance of renewable energy in combating Nigeria’s energy poverty.

He underscored the need for a diverse array of energy sources—such as biofuels, solar power, hydroelectricity, and wind energy—to achieve a balanced and sustainable energy mix.

Isong conveyed optimism about the future of renewable energy in Nigeria and highlighted ongoing efforts to improve press engagement and foster industry collaboration.

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