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Despite being the largest producer of oil and gas in Africa, agriculture remains the base of the Nigerian economy providing employment for about 34% of the population. Agriculture being the main source of livelihood for most Nigerians reportedly accounts for over 20% of the country’s Gross domestic product (Gdp).
Agriculture Contribution to Gdp over the years
Today, the demand for food is constantly on the rise, leading to high cost of food prices which is threatening food security around the world. This has prompted policy makers, governments and farmers to adopt new technologies, aimed at improving agricultural production processes in order to meet the rising demands.
The first step to achieving sustainable agriculture is to understand how important energy is to the progress and growth of agriculture. As we all know, modern agriculture requires energy to power farm machinery, equipment and facilities. Adopting clean technologies for our agricultural production and processing systems is key to moving beyond subsistence farming towards food security, added value in rural areas and expansion into new agricultural markets.
Clean Energy for Farming
Renewable energy technologies are ones that consume primary energy resources that are not subject to depletion. These clean technologies provide a simple and effective solution to achieving food security and sustainability.
When it comes to renewable technologies, the wind offers energy generation potential for use even in agriculture. Wind power can be used to generate electricity through the use of wind turbines, which can then be used to power farm machinery, pumps and poultry equipment. This clean technology is best suited for the coastal regions of Nigeria and parts of the north with high wind speeds. In Katsina State, a 10MW wind farm is currently being constructed to help improve power supply across the country.
Bio-energy is also one of the diverse resources available to meet our demand for energy. This form of renewable energy comes from biomass or biofuel, which are organic materials derived from biological sources such as wood, plants, energy crops, livestock and municipal waste etc. Biomass contributes a large percentage of Nigeria’s primary energy supply and is widely used by majority of Nigerians for cooking and for carrying out other activities. Bio-energy in the form of fuel (bio-gas, bio-ethanol, biodiesel) can be used in agriculture to power farm machinery, tractors, pumps and other equipment.
Solar is reliable energy source which when fully harnessed, offers great gain for our agricultural sector. Nigeria has a large solar energy potential, of which only just 27% is currently being used. Solar technologies harness sunlight (solar energy) and convert it to electrical energy which can be used to generate electricity or to heat energy which is called solar thermal.
Solar PV systems generate electricity which can be used in farms to power machinery, lighting, and water pumps. This electricity can also be stored in batteries, which provides free and sustainable power even when the sun is not shinning. Solar thermal systems can be used in farms to dry crops, keep livestock warm, generate hot water for cattle cleaning etc. Solar based water pumping can also help in regions with water scarcity. This clean initiative not only produces water, but it also helps saves energy.
The use of renewable energy technologies in agriculture reduces farmers excessive spending on generators, helping them save costs. It also ensures food security and promotes sustainable agriculture.
WHAT TO NOTE
The shift towards an increase in the use of renewable energy technologies in agriculture not only reduces farmers’ overdependence on fossil fuels, but also provides them with cost saving alternatives. At Energymall Nigeria, we provide state of the art RE technologies designed to meet the energy needs of businesses from all sectors. Our Solar power solutions help you worry less about high electricity bills and consistent power interruptions, allowing you save and invest funds in other areas of your business.
With a recent solar installation project at Reddington hospital complex, Ikeja, electricity correction for hospitals in Victoria Island and energy audits for offices in V/I, Lekki, we are constantly seeking to expand our reach and achieve our goal of being the go-to company for all things clean energy.
For inquires Email us: projects@energymall.ng
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