Legal Mechanisms for Energy Efficiency Adoption in Telecommunications Operations in Nigeria

Abstract

This study reviews the poor adoption of energy efficiency in Nigeria against the backdrop of its enormous socio-economic benefits globally. The study adopted the exploratory research design. It appraised existing literature to determine the potency of law as a tool for addressing the energy efficiency adoption gap in Nigeria. Law is presented as a veritable tool for the promotion of energy efficiency in Nigeria while the telecommunications sector was chosen as the test environment due to the energy intensity of telecommunications operations.  The Social Engineering Theory of Law propounded by Roscoe Pound provided the framework for this study.  The study revealed that energy efficiency adoption in Nigeria has been very low, especially in energy intensive sector such as telecommunications. Although there exist policies and plans on energy efficiency adoption in Nigeria, these policies are merely of persuasive authority without any force of law. They are at best statements showing the intention of governments on the subject of energy efficiency. The study therefore recommends the codification of energy efficiency standards and requirements and specifically makes a case for the use of sector specific regulations as an effective means of energy efficiency adoption within the telecommunications sector in Nigeria.

Keywords: Energy Efficiency, Legislation, Social Engineering, Telecommunications

DOI: 10.7176/JLPG/81-05

Publication date:June 30^th 2021