A REVIEW ASSESSMENT OF THE ENERGY POTENTIAL OF BIOMASS AROUND MAIDUGURI METROPOLIS.

Abstract

This review discusses biomass as a renewable energy source. It also defines the resources as well as the ways biomass energy is converted into electricity, technologies involved in extracting power from biomass. For Maiduguri having the climate nature of hot semi-arid according to Kooppen-Geiger climate classification with an average high temperature ranging between 31.9°C in January and 40.1°C in April and the daily mean temperature ranges between 21.8°C to 32.6°C, is indeed in urgent need of a steady electricity supply in order to cope with the condition. Biomass is the major energy source in Nigeria contributing about 78% of Nigeria primary energy supply. A variety of biomass resources exist in the country in large quantities with opportunities for expansion. Biomass resource considered include Agricultural crops (Maize corn). The Substitution of conventional fossil fuels with biomass for energy production results both in a net reduction of greenhouse gases emissions and in replacement of non-renewable energy sources. Biomass if properly harnessed can form a substantial part of future energy sources which will reduce the pressures on the global energy crises. The total energy stored in our terrestrial biomass is not only enormous but is also highly available and renewable. The type of biomass required is largely determined by the energy conversion process and the form in which the energy is required.