The Role of Natural Gas in Energy Security
R. U. Onolemhemhen *
University of Lagos, Nigeria
S. O. Isehunwa
University of Ibadan, Nigeria
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Natural gas is a fossil fuel with the highest energy efficiency and can provide a transition to a cleaner and more secured energy future as it complements the environmental attractiveness of renewable energy. However there are various, but not insuperable barriers to harnessing natural gas to meaningfully reduce energy challenges, poverty and the over reliance on crude oil in Nigeria. This study provides a theoretical exposition of the hindrances to the role of natural gas in providing energy security in Nigeria through the adoption of the IEA model for Short-Term energy security (MOSES) which analyzes the key indicators that affects domestic utilization of natural gas in Nigeria.
Results showed that there is a significant effect of export dependency and domestic pipeline infrastructure on domestic utilization of natural gas in Nigeria. Energy security is a necessity for economic development. It is therefore necessary for government and policy makers to drive policies that will improve domestic utilization of natural gas in Nigeria.
Keywords: Natural gas, domestic utilization, exportation, energy security, MOSES