Climate Change: Energy expert advocates gradual transition to renewables
From Femi Folaranmi, Yenagoa
Dr. Victor Ekpenyong, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Kenyon International has advocated a gradual switch to renewable energy sources as the country’s carbon emission was negligible.
Ekpenyong, a well control expert, noted that conversations around climate change and renewable energy were skewed against the African continent which makes minimal contribution to global warming.
A statement issued by Mr Kingsley Muonyili, Communications Manager at Kenyon noted that Ekpenyong spoke during the round table discussion at the 12th Emmanuel Egbogah Legacy Lecture Series held at the Emerald Institute of Energy Studies, University of Port Harcourt on Sept. 14, 2023.
Ekpenyong called for a National Interest approach to addressing the critical intersection of climate change and the geopolitics of energy transition.
“With a strong emphasis on Nigeria’s unique position in the global landscape, there is a need for a nuanced approach to sustainable development.
“We need to emphasise the importance of evaluating regional realities when addressing climate change issues, highlighting the importance of considering both carbon emission quotas and economic circumstances,” Ekpenyon said..
He urged stakeholders in the oil industry to unite so that Nigeria can produce more oil and gas to generate revenue to aid the smooth transition to renewable energy sources.
According to Ekpenyong Nigeria’s relatively minimal contribution to global carbon emissions should be capitalised on to harness the abundant oil and gas reserves to fund energy transition.
He explained that a recent report on global carbon emission released on Sept. 3 indicated that Africa accounts for just four per cent of global carbon emissions.
“In stark contrast, major global players such as the United States, China, Russia, and Japan collectively contribute more than 50 per cent of these emissions.
“Nigeria is not among the top three contributors to carbon emissions on the African continent, trailing behind South Africa, Egypt, and Algeria,” Ekpenyong added.
While advocating for a strategic approach to managing Nigeria’s finite energy resources and the need for resource management, increased production, and resource utilisation, he also highlighted the necessity of proactive measures to combat pipeline vandalism and oil theft in the oilfields which have long hindered the nation’s development.
“Kenyon International, as a company committed to sustainable energy solutions, is well-prepared to assist Nigeria in optimising its oil production through well remediation and intervention activities.
“Accounting for every drop of oil produced is not only vital for Nigeria’s economic prosperity but also essential for the nation’s sustainable development.
