Energy is a vital ingredient for development and a powerful engine of social and economic change in any country or region.
It is at the heart of everybody’s quality of life and a critical factor for economic development. The need for energy can never be over-emphasized in the contemporary world; it is indeed fundamental to the fulfillment of basic individual and community needs in our modern society. Lighting and heating a house; running a factory, lighting streets, keeping hospitals open and operational; provision of potable water, among others, all require energy.
Renewable energy is energy generated from natural resources such as sunlight, wind, rain, tides, and geothermal heat. It is derived from natural processes that are constantly replenished. Each of these renewable sources has unique characteristics which influence how and where they are used.
Maiduguri which frequently experiences power outage due to insurgency need to consider renewable energy to provide a modern alternative of electric supply for the residents.
Considering the fact that Governor Babagana Umara Zulum is working tirelessly together with the Power Holding Company and military to restore power to Maiduguri, the aspect of renewable energy also need to be considered.
Renewable energy will have relative advantages, considering the sun intensity and wind range in Maiduguri In addition to considering the cost of maintenance and repairs of the power or electricity which are frequently vandalized by Boko Haram. Renewable energy or power can save the cost of electricity in Maiduguri.
Therefore, I appeal to Governor Babagana Umara Zulum to consider renewable energy, specifically solar system power plant in Maiduguri, as it can address the frequent power outage as well as hardship impose on the residents of Maiduguri by the frequent power outage.
Jamila Baba Muhammed writes from Department of Mass Communication, University of Maiduguri
