Association Advocates Energy Efficiency for Industries to Combat Environmental Challenges

The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has underscored the critical need for energy efficiency in both industries and households to address Nigeria’s escalating environmental challenges, reduce energy costs, and promote sustainable development.

The Director of Research and Economic Policy at MAN, Dr. Oluwasegun Osidipe, made this call in Abuja during a capacity-building workshop organized by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and the Global Environment Facility (GEF) in collaboration with Resource Efficiency Cleaner Production, RECP Project in Nigeria.

Dr, Osidipe also noted that energy costs now consume over 45% of manufacturers overheads, compared to 30–35% in previous years.

“In 2023 alone, manufacturers spent over ₦183 billion on alternative energy sources to keep production running, excluding billions paid for grid electricity. These costs not only increase the price of goods but also reduce production capacity and hinder expansion,” he said.

Highlighting the environmental implications, Osidipe stressed the importance of transitioning to energy-efficient systems to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and resource wastage.

He encouraged industries to conduct energy audits to identify inefficiencies, replace outdated machinery, and adopt renewable energy sources such as solar power.

“We cannot continue with business-as-usual practices. The future lies in adopting sustainable energy solutions. This is not only beneficial for reducing costs but also critical for mitigating climate change and ensuring environmental sustainability,” Osidipe stated.

According to him, “energy conservation must start at home, energy is expensive, and we must be intentional about how we use it. Avoid leaving lights, fans, or televisions on in rooms that are not in use. Simple changes, like switching to energy-efficient bulbs and appliances, can save costs and reduce environmental impact,”.

He also shared practical tips for households to cut energy consumption, such as using timers for refrigerators and freezers at night when they require less energy to function.

“These small adjustments can make a significant difference in lowering electricity bills and conserving energy,” he added.

UNIDO’s National Program Coordinator, Oluyomi Banjo, explained the project’s international context, noting that industries globally account for one-third of energy consumption and nearly 40% of CO2 emissions.

“This project, the first of its kind in Nigeria, integrates industrial energy efficiency and cleaner production methodologies to address these challenges while aligning with international best practices,”

“The initiative also includes a financing scheme through the Bank of Industry to assist manufacturers in acquiring energy-efficient equipment at single-digit interest rates, with repayment periods of up to five years.” Banjo stated.

Mr Banjo emphasized the media’s critical role in educating the public about sustainable energy practices.

“The media serves as the bridge between technical experts and the general public, their reporting shapes how the public understands these issues and influences behavior change,” he said.

National Project Coordinator for MAN, Mr Oladipo Jacob, emphasized the critical role of accurate interpretation and reporting to ensure stakeholders fully understand the methodologies and objectives of the RECP-IEE project.

The workshop revealed the broader objectives of the RECP-IEE project, which include supporting 70 industries across sectors such as textiles, petrochemicals, steel, food and beverages, and wood and furniture to implement energy efficiency measures.

The project aims to train over 300 Nigerian experts on global standards for resource efficiency and cleaner production.

The event, which focused on the Nigeria Resource Efficiency and Cleaner Production (RECP) and Industrial Energy Efficiency (IEE) Project, brought together key stakeholders, including media practitioners, to drive awareness of sustainable energy practices.

The RECP-IEE project aims to set the foundation for establishing National Cleaner Production Centres in Nigeria, which will promote circular economy principles and enhance the country’s industrial competitiveness.