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Solid Biofuel Production from Biomass: Technologies, Challenges, and Opportunities for Its Commercial Production in Nigeria

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  • Okey Francis Obi

    (Department of Postharvest Technology, Leibniz-Institute for Agricultural Engineering and Bioeconomy, Max-Eyth-Allee 100, 14469 Potsdam, Germany
    Agricultural and Bioresources Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, University of Nigeria, Nsukka 410001, Nigeria)

  • Temitope Olumide Olugbade

    (Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 4HN, UK)

  • Joseph Ifeolu Orisaleye

    (Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Lagos, Akoka 101017, Nigeria)

  • Ralf Pecenka

    (Department of Postharvest Technology, Leibniz-Institute for Agricultural Engineering and Bioeconomy, Max-Eyth-Allee 100, 14469 Potsdam, Germany)

Abstract

Producing durable and efficient solid biofuels should be an important consideration in Nigeria’s present economy due to the numerous advantages associated with it. It offers the benefit of energy generation, particularly in rural areas, and could potentially replace fossil fuels. However, the adoption and production of solid biofuels at commercial scale in Nigeria is limited by some challenges, including the lack of a developed supply chain structure, inadequate facilities, and air pollution. The present study summarizes the types of solid biofuel production technologies deployed in Nigeria as well as the biomass feedstock utilized in the production of fuel briquettes and pellets. While opportunities exist in the gasification of biomass in Nigeria, direct combustion is a readily applicable fuel conversion process that can be utilized to generate electricity from solid biofuel. The major challenges surrounding the full adoption of solid biofuel production and utilization in Nigeria are highlighted. Among others, promotion of clean energy alternatives, investments and financial incentives, sustainable renewable energy policy and energy transition plan, and legislative backing are identified as factors that could accelerate the commercial production and adoption of solid biofuel in Nigeria.

Suggested Citation

  • Okey Francis Obi & Temitope Olumide Olugbade & Joseph Ifeolu Orisaleye & Ralf Pecenka, 2023. "Solid Biofuel Production from Biomass: Technologies, Challenges, and Opportunities for Its Commercial Production in Nigeria," Energies, MDPI, vol. 16(24), pages 1-22, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:16:y:2023:i:24:p:7966-:d:1296652
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    References listed on IDEAS

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