EVALUATING SOCIAL ACCEPTANCE OF BIOGAS TECHNOLOGIES FOR SUSTAINABLE ENERGY TRANSITION IN NIGERIA: CASE STUDY OF RURAL COMMUNITIES IN BENIN CITY, EDO STATE

Abstract

The development of biogas technologies and their deployment in energy-deficient urban and peri-urban settlements of developing countries is essential for achieving key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In alignment with its Energy Transition Plan targeting net-zero emissions by 2060, the Nigerian government recognizes waste-to-energy technology as a timely solution for mitigating climate change, addressing municipal solid waste (MSW) challenges, and providing energy for household and commercial use. However, biogas deployment in Nigeria remains limited, with social acceptance as a significant constraint. This study evaluated the effects of social acceptance on biogas deployment in Benin City, Nigeria. Data were collected from 420 systematically and purposively sample respondents on their perceptions of biogas technologies. Social acceptance indices included economic factors (household income and investment opportunities), technological complexity, socio-political acceptance (government support), market readiness, and cultural/religious attitudes toward feedstock such as cattle rumen and poultry droppings. Findings revealed that social media was the primary information source on waste-to-energy technologies, followed by seminars which focus on waste-to-energy. LPG was the main household cooking fuel in Benin City, followed by biomass, while electricity ranked lowest due to cost and power supply inconsistency. Fossil fuel attractiveness and availability were major factors influencing fuel choice. Awareness of waste-to-energy technologies ranged from low to moderate. Key barriers to biogas deployment included economic concerns, technological complexity, need for government support, and cultural resistance to feedstock handling. The study recommends intensified training and sensitization programs to promote biogas technologies within local contexts.