Reflections on the Indigenization of Ghana’s Petroleum Downstream Industry (OMC AND BDC activities) and the Possible Upshot on the Country (Published)
In developing countries, indigenization is a common policy and legislation tool implemented to increase and promote local content and local participation in the various sectors especially the natural sector. However, these policies and legislation produce mixed results as reported by industry players and researchers. In 2005, the act setting up the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), the regulator of Ghana’s petroleum downstream, placed enormous responsibility on the authority to enhance the indigenization of the oil and gas industry in the downstream sector. In relation to this key mandate, the National Petroleum Authority, led by its new chief executive, Dr. Mustapha Al-Hamid, unveiled a major change in state policy with regards to the indigenization of the structure of the sector. This paper seeks to identify and thoroughly examine the possible impact of this impending indigenization of Ghana’s downstream oil and gas industry. Positive impacts such as the infrastructural development in the country, the reduction on foreign control of the economy, the increment in revenue, the indigenous participation and self-reliance it brings to the country are the essential benefits. However, the discouragement of foreign investment as well as the wealthy hijacking the economy will have an adverse effect on the positive impact.
Keywords: Downstream, Energy, Indigenization, Oil and Gas
Energy Efficient Housing as a Mitigating Option for Climate Change in Nigeria (Published)
This paper discusses the capacity of energy efficiency in housing to serve as a panacea to climate change. Drawing from secondary sources, the study revealed that energy is required in houses for optimum performance. However, in Nigeria, the energy required is mostly generated from fossil fuel which emits greenhouse gasses into the atmosphere. These greenhouse gasses result in the depletion of ozone layer which causes global warming and by extension, climate change. It recommends among other things, proper landscaping, north and south orientation of houses, natural vegetation, natural lighting, the use of energy efficient electrical and mechanical appliances and the use of green power. The paper concluded that energy efficient housing environment that employs these parameters will experience reduced global warming and climate change associated challenges.
Keywords: Climate Change, Energy, Energy Efficiency, Housing, Mitigating Option, Nigeria