May’s Gas Flaring Wasted 3,100 GWh of Nigeria’s Electricity

Nigeria lost an estimated 3,100 GWh of potential power generation in May due to continued gas flaring by oil companies. The flared volume was valued at roughly $107.5 million, with defaulting firms facing about $61.4 million in penalties. Data from the national oil spill agency and the upstream petroleum regulator differ sharply. The regulator put flared gas at 17.6 million standard cubic feet, while the spill agency recorded 30.7 million. Onshore operations alone accounted for 22.3 million, driving CO₂ emissions of around 1.6 million tonnes. Despite the government’s “Decade of Gas” drive to make Nigeria gas-powered by 2030, investors say flaring persists and electricity generation rarely tops 4,000 MW. The Renevlyn Development Initiative is now urging a total ban on the practice, arguing companies prefer paying fines over ending flares.

Use The App To Win ₦1m

Stories are shared by community members. This article does not represent the official view of NaijaWorld — the author is solely responsible for its content.