Journal of Energy Management and Technology

Journal of Energy Management and Technology

Sustainable Initiative towards a Zero-CO2 Economy in Sub-Saharan Africa

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Williams S. Ebhota 1
Pavel Y. Tabakov 2
1 Durban University of Technology
2 Department of Mechanical Engineering, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa
10.22109/jemt.2024.460188.1509
Abstract
The growing demand for renewable energy (RE) is driven by the need for reliable and cost-effective energy, as well as the urgency to address climate change. Global energy requirements encounter challenges due to rapid industrialization, urbanization, and population growth in the Global South. Fossil fuel exploitation faces limitations, such as resource constraints, price fluctuations, subsidies, and environmental concerns. This study focuses on establishing a zero-CO2 emissions electricity system for traditional markets in sub-Saharan Africa (TMSSA). It provides a thorough analysis of CO2 in greenhouse gases (GHG) and emphasizes the importance of decarbonisation. The study proposes a RE-based scheme, utilising the NEW Motor Spare Parts Market in Nnewi, Nigeria, as a case study for supplying clean electricity to TMSSA. It demonstrates the viability of a photovoltaic (PV) scheme for traditional markets through meticulous design, optimization, and economic assessment. Results at optimal azimuth and tilt angles of 180º and 7º, respectively, include parameters for potential, performance and financial assessments. The project is deemed feasible, technically and financially based on the study’s results of annual total PV generation, PR, and avoidable CO2 emissions of 3.724 GWh, 77.5%, and 729,430 kg/year, respectively.
Keywords
Traditional markets
Renewable energy
Global South energy challenges
Zero-CO2 emissions
Climate change mitigate

Subjects

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Journal of Energy Management and Technology
Volume 9, Issue 1
Winter 2025
Pages 55-67

  • Receive Date 29 May 2024
  • Revise Date 03 August 2024
  • Accept Date 09 August 2024