A recent report from Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL), in partnership with the Lagos State Government, has shed light on the staggering fuel consumption in Lagos, raising urgent concerns about the environmental and economic impacts.
The report shows that households and businesses in Lagos use a staggering 15.6 billion litres of fuel each year, which significantly contributes to carbon emissions and underscores the city’s dependence on fossil fuels.
The report indicates that households in Lagos use 9 billion liters of fuel each year, resulting in emissions of 21 million tons of carbon equivalents. Moreover, Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) consume an additional 6.6 billion liters, producing 17.8 million tons of emissions.
“The reliance on fossil fuels not only worsens carbon emissions but also poses serious risks to public health and the environment,” the report warns. It underscores the critical need for alternative energy solutions to mitigate these effects.
A notable finding from the report is that nearly 88% of Lagos households are open to switching to alternative energy sources if affordable options become available. While 75% express interest in solar power, only 2% have made the switch, primarily due to the high cost of solar systems. Similarly, while 80% of MSMEs are aware of solar energy, just 3% have adopted it.
Since the removal of the petrol subsidy, 28% of households and 26% of businesses have begun exploring alternative energy sources, suggesting a potential shift towards more sustainable solutions. However, affordability remains the major obstacle to this transition.
The report’s findings highlight the urgent need for government and private sector intervention to make alternative energy more accessible and affordable for both households and MSMEs, fostering a greener future for Lagos.
