Minister for Environment, Laurentia Mallam, who disclosed this in Abuja when senior officials of the Total Group paid her a courtesy visit in her office stated that the “archaic” household beams would be replaced in 12 months with “Clean Solar Energy Lamps that are more environmentally and ozone-friendly.”
She said that the Solar lamps offer a credible solution to clean and renewable energy that were favourable to global requirements for positive actions against climate change.
She noted that the candles and lamp phase-out process would not come by way of legislation but through the introduction of “a superior product.”
Mallam assured that the new Solar energy lamp technology would be distributed by the Total Group at affordable prices especially to the rural poor.
The minister expressed concern on environmental hazards and avoidable deaths from fire outbreaks caused by the use of candles and kerosene lanterns.
She explained that the switch would slash the price of kerosene and possibly eliminate the use of candles in Nigeria, thereby improving the position of the country on the list of ozone-friendly nations in line with the transformation agenda of President Goodluck Jonathan.
Vice President of Total Group, Allen Schapeaux said the solar alternative had been introduced to other developing countries including Kenya, Indonesia and Pakistan and that the organisation intends to establish a production plant soon in Nigeria for the entire West African market.
The minister said synergy with other ministries including Trade and Investment, Finance, Health and Education would ensure success of the Solar initiative.
Source: Guardian
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