OTC 2023: African leaders, energy companies need to integrate energy plans, define continent’s transition pathway- Aduda

Oredola Adeola

Mr. Gabriel Aduda, Permanent Secretary, of Nigeria’s Ministry of Petroleum Resources, has called on African leaders and energy companies operating in the continent to integrate their energy transition agenda in such a way that will ensure a sustainable energy future for African people, instead of being swayed by the aggressive calls for the reduction in the consumption and production of fossil-based fuels.

Aduda made this observation in his remark during the Africa Energy Forum, with the theme: “Building Resilience in Africa’s Energy Sector in the Era of Energy Transition”, held on the sideline of the ongoing Offshore Technology Conference 2023, in Houston, Texas, United States of America.

EnergyDay gathered that the technical session on Africa Energy Forum focused on how the continent can address the resilience and sustainability policies of energy companies operating in Africa amidst the wake of the ongoing transition.

According to the Nigerian Petroleum Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, a collaborative approach within the continent is essential in efforts to build a more sustainable and resilient energy system that could support economic growth and development in the region.

Aduda said, “African integration is key at this point and Africa must define its own path, draw up its own energy transition agenda, and must not be forced along with the bandwagon.

“Fossil fuels will still be relevant for decades to come and Africa can only commit to cleaner processes of extraction and production says resilience and sustainability policies are crucial for the long-term success of energy companies operating in Africa.

Aduda further said that energy companies operating in Africa face a unique set of challenges in the wake of the ongoing transition to a more sustainable and resilient energy system.

According to him, these challenges include meeting growing energy demand, reducing the carbon footprint of their operations, and adapting to the effects of climate change.

He said, “To address these challenges, energy companies are developing resilience and sustainability policies that aim to ensure the long-term viability of their operations.

“While minimising their impact on the environment. These policies typically focus on several key areas,” he said.

Aduda further said that energy companies are increasingly investing in renewable energy sources, such as wind, solar, and hydropower, which help to reduce their reliance on fossil fuels and lower their carbon footprint.

The PS said that many companies were also exploring new technologies such as energy storage and smart grids to optimise the use of renewable energy.

“Energy companies are implementing energy efficiency measures in their operations to reduce their energy consumption and lower their costs.

“This includes measures such as upgrading equipment, improving insulation, and implementing energy management systems.

“Energy companies are implementing environmental management systems to reduce the impact of their operations on the environment.

“This includes measures such as waste management, emissions reduction, and biodiversity conservation,” Aduda explained.

He said that energy companies have recognised the importance of social responsibility in their operations.

He added that the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA 2021) protects is focused on environmental protection and the collaboration of oil-producing companies with the host communities for sustainability.

According to him, energy companies are developing plans involving measures such as backup power systems, emergency response plans, supply chain diversification, and efficiency to ensure the continuity of their operations despite operational challenges.