How NCC plans to drive clean energy adoption in telecoms sector
By Motolani Oseni
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has said is in the process of introducing a policy that will encourage adoption of clean energy in the telecommunications sector.
The executive vice chairman/CEO, NCC, Prof. Umar Garba Danbatta, who disclosed this at a roundtable with Academia, industry and other stakeholders recently in Lagos, explained that, studies have showed that renewables and energy efficiency, coupled with electrification, can provide over 90 per cent of the necessary reductions in energy-related carbon emissions.
Danbatta said, the telecom sector, like many other industries, has a significant role to play in transitioning to a sustainable energy future, adding that, it is the responsibility of all stakeholders to ensure that the growth of the telecom sector is achieved in a manner that is environmentally friendly and in alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
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“NCC recognises the importance of clean energy usage in the telecommunications sector. The commission is committed to promoting regulatory initiatives that encourage the adoption of renewable and ethical energy sources. Our goal is to safeguard the environment for consumers and other users of telecom services while also contributing to the achievement of net-zero emissions,” he stated
In line with this vision, Danbatta disclosed that the commission is in the process of introducing a policy to encourage ethical energy sourcing in the telecommunications sector.
“This policy will serve as a framework for telecom service providers to adopt clean and sustainable energy sources, reducing their carbon footprint and contributing to a greener future. We believe that this policy will not only benefit the environment but also drive innovation and create new business opportunities within the industry,” he posited.
To achieve this vision, the CEO, however, called for collaboration and partnership with Academia and other stakeholders, adding that, “the Academia plays a crucial role in advancing research and innovation that can transform industries. We need your expertise, knowledge, and insights to guide us in developing feasible alternative sources of clean energy that the telecommunications industry can leverage for a sustainable energy supply.”
One of the challenges academia is facing in terms of promoting clean energy in Nigeria is synergy with critical agencies, the vice chancellor, Covenant University, Prof. Abiodun Adebayo said, while applauding the NCC for bringing together academia and other stakeholders to discuss on ways to achieve sustainable source of energy in Nigeria.
Adebayo however assured that universities in Nigeria will continue to promote clean energy sources, through researches.
In the same vein, the deputy vice chancellor, (Development Services), University of Lagos(UNILAG), Prof. Ayodele Atsenuwa reiterated that, unclean energy is more expensive in terms of its negative impact on man’s health and the environment.
Atsenuwa, however, called on NCC to come up with a strategic plan that will encourage the adoption of clean energy in the telecoms sector. “NCC needs to go beyond stimulating stakeholders in the sector; the commission needs to drive the vision and ensure that all sectors of the Nigerian economy catch allign with that vision,” she urged.
