Nigeria, 2015
Client: Winrock International
What we did
EUCORD provided consultancy for Winrock International’s Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Project (REEEP) Nigeria project, giving assessment on solar-powered irrigation systems and biomass energy opportunities, such as converting rice husks into fuel briquettes. Another key aspect was engaging with key stakeholders, including large rice mills and farmer cooperatives, to promote innovative practices that could lower production costs, improve rice drying methods, and boost the sustainability of Nigeria’s rice sector.
Conclusions
With the increased number of rice mills, dry season production became more widespread, particularly in northern Nigeria. Low-cost irrigation technology was introduced by MARKETS II and other programs. While solar-powered irrigation systems were an option, their high initial cost compared to low-cost fuel pumps (like the motorcycle pump from MARKETS II) required further cost-benefit analysis versus conventional irrigation practices.
Large rice mills struggled to get enough rice husks for biomass power, often buying husks or using other biomass like sawdust, with the Abakaliki milling cluster notably not utilizing rice husks.
Converting husks to briquettes for parboiling could reduce costs and firewood use, though further study was needed to determine profitability and suitable technology. Renewable energy opportunities also existed for drying paddy, with sun drying facing challenges like sudden rain, especially in southern regions. The Solar Bubble Dryer from IRRI in the Philippines offered a potential solution by drying 1 MT of paddy per day
