Erenyanate, Inifuro;
(2025)
Investigating Tidal Stream Energy as a Potential Renewable Energy Source in Nigeria: The Case for the Niger Delta Region.
Doctoral thesis (Ph.D), UCL (University College London).
Abstract
This thesis investigates the potential of tidal stream energy (TSE) as an alternative renewable energy source in the Forcados Estuary of the Niger Delta region, focusing on its technical, economic, environmental, social and political feasibility. TSE, harnessed from the kinetic energy of ocean currents, offers a renewable and predictable alternative to conventional fossil fuels. Despite its potential, the technology is not widely researched in developing countries due to data scarcity, technological challenges and its high levelised cost of electricity. This thesis investigates the conditions under which TSE could be feasible in the Forcados Estuary, with the potential to provide energy access to the region. Given the region's fragile ecosystem and complex socio-political landscape, this thesis integrates a multidisciplinary approach to address the research questions. Hydrodynamic modelling is employed to assess the tidal resource potential within the estuary, while techno-economic assessments are conducted to analyse the feasibility of proposed deployments. Additionally, qualitative methods, including expert elicitation and stakeholder interviews, are used to determine the social, political, and environmental factors that could influence the implementation of the technology. It also delves into the existing structure of the renewable energy sector in the Niger Delta, examining the social, political and environmental implications for TSE deployments. The findings suggest that there is theoretical potential for TSE, although it is limited. This means that, with technological advancement, the technology could deliver energy access and associated benefits to the communities of the Forcados Estuary within a decade. However, there were several economic and political barriers and, as a result, TSE remains a distant possibility. This thesis provides a guide for assessing TSE in non-grid-connected regions and coastal communities in developing countries, highlighting key implementation barriers and proposing strategies to mitigate them. By doing so, it aims to contribute to Nigeria’s transition towards clean energy, particularly within the Niger Delta region.
| Type: | Thesis (Doctoral) |
|---|---|
| Qualification: | Ph.D |
| Title: | Investigating Tidal Stream Energy as a Potential Renewable Energy Source in Nigeria: The Case for the Niger Delta Region |
| Language: | English |
| UCL classification: | UCL UCL > Provost and Vice Provost Offices > UCL BEAMS UCL > Provost and Vice Provost Offices > UCL BEAMS > Faculty of the Built Environment UCL > Provost and Vice Provost Offices > UCL BEAMS > Faculty of the Built Environment > Bartlett School Env, Energy and Resources |
| URI: | https://discovery.ucl.ac.uk/id/eprint/10210821 |
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