Journal of Emerging Trends in Engineering and Applied Sciences: Research Areas

Abstract:
Access to energy is a driving force for social, economic and industrial development. Coal, a major source of energy has played this important role for centuries in many developed nations � not only providing electricity, but also as an essential fuel for steel and cement production and for other industrial activities. Inadequate energy supply has been a major challenge in Nigeria. Reversing this situation requires an aggressive tackling of our energy challenges. This paper explores the potential of coal in Nigeria energy mix and shows how its resuscitation can propel industrial growth in the economy. The share of coal in Nigeria power generation is 0%. Nigeria proven coal reserves are 639 MT while the inferred reserves are about 2.75BT consisting approximately of 49% sub-bituminous, 39% bituminous and 12% lignitic coals. These unexploited coal resources may generate more than 20,000MW (20 GW) of electricity for 70 years by converting coal to a clean gas, which can then be burned like natural gas with combined-cycle turbine. It contains low ash and high sulfur and considered suitable for power generation. It is recommended that Nigerian government and private individual should embrace this golden opportunity to put an end to our epileptic power generation and supply; if we hope to achieve the laudable goals of the much talked about Vision 20-20-20.

Keywords: Coal Resources, Development, Power Generation and Nigeria

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