Hike in Electricity Tariff, Nigerian Consumers Can Take Learning from Other Countries Says UK-Based Management Consultant Precious Onyenweaku

As Nigerians continue to grapple with recent major increases in electricity tariff which has added extra burden to their livelihood, a Nigerian project management consultant who is resident in the United Kingdom has said that Nigerian electricity consumers can deploy smart measures to cope with the increase, taking lessons from other countries with similar experiences in recent times.

Precious Onyenweaku who recently graduated with a master’s degree in International Management from the University of the West of Scotland, Scotland in the United Kingdom noted that Nigerian electricity consumers can take simple and consistent steps to ensure that the rise in cost of electricity does not put too much pressure on the overall wellbeing of families which may result in social crisis.

He noted that his master’s dissertation which dwelled on the influence of rising costs of energy on the energy consumer behavior of international students in Scotland was intended to explore the various ways by which electricity consumers in Scotland adapted to the increase in tariff in recent period.

The study which investigated the rise in energy prices across Scotland and globally noted that increases in energy costs in most countries often had impacted households in several ways including economically, socially, emotionally and materially.

Speaking further on the study, Onyenweaku said “However, little is known about the effects of high energy tariffs on a unique growing segment of the Scottish population which is international University students. Therefore, I conducted this study to investigate the impact of rising energy costs on the consumer behavior of international university students in Scotland which is all relevant to other demographics and residents both in the United Kingdom and elsewhere, including Nigeria.

The study hinged on consumer behavior theory and analyses the effects of energy costs on curtailment and efficiency behaviors evident among international students in Scotland. It noted that factors such as personal, cultural, social, economic, and pro-environmental perception were taken into cognizance in the design of the research questionnaire and data collection from 220 participants.

The study used descriptive statistics, multivariable linear regression, and ANOVA for data analysis. A pivotal revelation was that all participants experienced an elevation in energy costs post-immigration, with 70.5% observing a significant surge. In exploring energy consumption habits, the study underscored a compelling inclination towards energy-saving practices, with 72.73% of respondents consistently turning off lights when exiting rooms.

Also, the linear regression analysis explained the implications of rising energy costs on consumption behaviors, revealing an unexpected positive correlation noting that “more” energy-saving changes are linked to significantly lower curtailment in consumption patterns. The study further indicated that households relying solely on gas as an energy source exhibited significantly distinct energy costs compared to those utilising both gas and electricity.

The study reveals a crucial link between energy awareness and consumption. Students, particularly those from Nigeria and India, demonstrated significant energy-saving behaviors like switching off lights and appliances. This finding, according to Onyenweaku, “underscores the complexities of energy consumption” but also offers “actionable insights” for Nigerians.

Onyenweaku emphasized the importance of investing in energy-efficient appliances and home improvements. “A review of energy ratings and consumption of existing appliances”, he suggests, can lead to significant cost savings. Furthermore, “buildings that benefit from natural light and ventilation” can lessen the financial burden on households.
Nigeria’s geographical location presents a unique opportunity for renewable energy solutions.

He suggested that households could increase patronage in solar installations, even for small-scale purposes like phone charging and powering lights. For those with the financial means, integrating solar power with the public grid offers even greater potential.

Additionally, he emphasized the critical role of energy education and awareness, particularly in rural areas. He identifies the National Orientation Agency (NOA) as having a pivotal role to play in this regard. By educating communities, Nigerians can make informed choices that benefit both their wallets and the environment.

Furthermore, he acknowledged the challenges faced by Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) due to rising energy costs. Onyenweaku suggests that these businesses may need to overhaul or at least reduce reliance on energy-intensive machinery. Additionally, supporting research institutions in developing local interventions can provide sustainable and cost-effective solutions for Nigerian businesses.

Onyenweaku noted that some negative effects of the energy costs could push households into poverty, result in reliance on unsustainable alternatives, depression and other mental concerns, poor academic performance among students, stifle SMEs, and impact on overall costs of living. However, he remains optimistic. By promoting energy curtailment, investment in energy efficiency, and pro-environmental practices, both the government and households can mitigate these effects. Local interventions tailored to Nigeria’s specific needs offer the best path to adaptation and a more sustainable future.

Onyenweaku’s research is informed by both his academic background and extensive professional experience. Holding a master’s degree in International Management with Distinction from the University of the West of Scotland, his achievements extend beyond the classroom. Onyenweaku is a recipient of the prestigious ‘2022 Entrepreneurial Spirit’ and ‘Court Medal’ awards, along with the ‘2023 Aspire Employability’ recognition.

Onyenweaku brings a unique blend of academic rigor, practical understanding of energy business and prior success in sales management within Nigeria’s FMCG sector, offering valuable insights particularly relevant to the Nigerian context. He is currently a management strategist in the UK.