Energy Losses through Unharnessed Biomass in South-Eastern Region of Nigeria

Abstract

The problem of over-dependence on the non-renewable and fastdepleting
fossil fuels is one the world of science needs not wink at any longer. In Nigeria, the level of dependence on these fossil fuels has created a great disparity in the sourcing, harnessing, exploration and exploitation of these natural endowments vis-à-vis other energy
sources. The truth of the matter is that virtually all other sources of energy are neglected, untapped and unutilized/underutilized. This research work was necessitated by the burden to create awareness on the quantity of energy lost as occasioned by this insensitive attitude of the society to these other forms of energy and the possible implications to the environment and economy. It is the view of these writers that diversification of our energy consumption is a potent panacea to the usual power shortages and high cost of energy in
Nigeria. The research findings show that about 20.52% of domestic energy requirements of South-eastern region of Nigeria could be met through proper harnessing of biomass (biodegradable materials) for the production of biogas.

African Research Review Vol. 2 (3) 2008: pp. 21-34