In the heart of Nigeria, a pressing question is being asked: how will the country’s buildings fare in a future marked by rising temperatures and extreme weather events? Mark Alegbe, a researcher from Auchi Polytechnic in Edo State, has been delving into this very issue, and his findings, published in the journal Acta Structilia (which translates to “Structural Acts”), offer a stark warning and a clear path forward.
Alegbe’s study paints a picture of Nigeria’s future that is, quite literally, heating up. By the year 2100, the country could see an average temperature increase of 5.2°C, a figure that varies significantly by region. This isn’t just a matter of discomfort; it’s a challenge to the very habitability of Nigeria’s buildings. “Existing housing stock, designed without climate change in mind, may become unliveable,” Alegbe warns. This isn’t just a problem for residents; it’s a ticking time bomb for the energy sector.
As buildings struggle to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures, energy demand for cooling will skyrocket. This isn’t just about increased demand; it’s about increased peak demand, which can strain the grid and drive up costs. Moreover, as buildings become less efficient, the embodied energy in their construction and operation will rise, further exacerbating the problem.
But Alegbe’s research isn’t all doom and gloom. It also offers a roadmap for a more sustainable future. He advocates for a suite of strategies, including solar shading, thermal mass insulation, passive cooling and ventilation, renewable energy integration, and the use of low embodied energy materials. These aren’t just theoretical solutions; they’re practical steps that can be taken today to future-proof Nigeria’s buildings.
However, Alegbe acknowledges that there are significant barriers to overcome. Financial constraints, weak policy frameworks, and technological and knowledge gaps all pose challenges. But he’s optimistic that, with the right support, Nigeria can transition to a more sustainable, low-carbon future.
So, what does this mean for the energy sector? It’s a call to action. Energy providers need to start thinking about how they can support these changes, from investing in renewable energy to developing new business models that incentivize energy efficiency. It’s also a call to policymakers, to create a supportive regulatory environment. And it’s a call to building professionals, to start thinking about how they can incorporate these strategies into their designs.
Alegbe’s research, published in Acta Structilia, is a wake-up call. But it’s also a beacon of hope, illuminating a path forward to a more sustainable, resilient future. The question is, will Nigeria—and the energy sector—rise to the challenge? The future of the country’s buildings, and the comfort and safety of its residents, hang in the balance.