Experts in renewable energy sector are calling for responsible and environmental friendly approach to renewable energy sector especially on better recycling mode for lead acid batteries to ensure healthier environment .
Speaking on Tuesday in Abuja, Terseer Ugbo of Alliace for Responsible batter told participants that if the nation is going to bridge the electricity target of 30 000 megawatts by 2030, a greater attention must be paid to off grid electricity solution and how lead acid battery is recylcled.
“If the imported batteries are not properly documented and mechanisms for managing their after life of the battery not properly stipulated,then we have emergency in our hand.
He states further that, “Illegal battery recyling is a major concern,as recent report states that Nigeria is above the lead pollution limit due largely operations of illegal recylers across the country.
Terseer states in addition that agencies that supports renewable energy in the country must make case for sound management of lead acid batteries in the country,since a greater number of them would be coming into the country on the back of rising demand in off-grid electricity solutions.
“An estimated Lead acid battery worth 400 000 is imported into the country annually,while 4 million motor batteries are also imported annually, which calls to question of heightened advocacy on the proper management of the batteries,this is the essence of our discussion here today,and you could see some government officials too.”he said.
Gilbert Adie of the Basel convention centre for the African Region told BusinessDay on the sidelines of the event that led causes lots of effects on human body if not
“Lead poisioning causes low intelligent quotience,destabilises the system,causes cancer,that is why the advocacy must be contunued so that illegal recycling does not contaminate our water, agricultural products among others.
Ify Malo, the Executive director of Clean Technology hub urged stakeholders at the event to sustain the drive for a healthier clean environment with better standards in driving off-grid energy solutions.
HARRISON EDEH, ABUJA
