The House of Representatives on Wednesday tasked the Federal Government to adopt the use of renewable energy solutions in its Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) in order to reduce the expenditure on energy in the country’s annual budget.
This followed the adoption of a motion titled “Need for Utilisation of Renewable Energy in Ministries, Departments, and Agencies of the Federal Government” sponsored by Hon. Esosa Iyawe at the Plenary presided over by the Speaker, Rep. Tajudeen Abbas.
Moving the motion, the lawmaker said, “The House notes that over the years, Nigeria has grappled with unreliable power supply and has long been dependent on fossil fuels, primarily oil and gas, for its energy needs, thus contributing to substantial operational costs and consequent financial strain for various sectors, including government Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).”
“The House also notes that countries across the world have diversified into sustainable power sources, which have proven to be cost-effective, more reliable, practical, safer, and sustainable.”
“The House is aware that, according to reports, about 60 GW of electrical power obtainable from renewable energy sources would enhance industrialisation within the country to a very large extent.”
“The House is concerned that in the midst of a failing economy, Nigeria faces a serious energy crisis, with many of the power plants in government facilities in dilapidated, obsolete, unreliable, and a state of disrepair despite huge amounts budgeted annually for maintenance.”
The House is also concerned that the reliance on diesel generators not only elevates operational costs and drains the nation’s financial resources but also contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, thus undermining Nigeria’s commitments to reduce carbon emissions by 20% by 2030.
The House is cognisant that the utilisation of renewable energy would reduce operational costs, enhance energy security, and align with global climate commitments. Hence, the Federal Government ought to take immediate steps to adopt the use of renewable energy, especially in the Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) as well as schools.
When the motion was put into a voice vote, it was unanimously supported by members, and the Speaker mandated the Committee on Renewable Energy to ensure implementation.
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