Awareness and Use of Renewable Energy as Alternative Power Source for ICT Facilities in Selected Academic Libraries in Edo State, Nigeria

Omwanghe Etinosa James, Omoefe Ogheneyoma Esther

Abstract


This research critically explores the level of awareness and practical utilization of renewable energy as an alternative power source for ICT facilities within selected academic libraries in Edo State, Nigeria. Employing a descriptive survey methodology, data were obtained from a sample of 152 library staff across various universities through a structured questionnaire utilizing a four-point Likert scale. The results indicate that there is a high degree of awareness regarding renewable energy (with mean scores ranging from 2.79 to 3.36), coupled with a strong recognition of its perceived benefits (all means exceeding 3.20). Among the renewable sources, solar energy emerged as the most favored, evidenced by a mean rating of 3.38. Despite this positive perception, the actual implementation of renewable energy solutions remains notably limited, with a mean score of 2.11 reflecting minimal adoption. The primary obstacles identified include insufficient funding—highlighted by a mean of 3.51—problematic government policies (mean 3.36), and maintenance challenges (mean 3.42). The findings suggest that although there is a substantial awareness and appreciation of renewable energy's potential benefits within these institutions, considerable gaps persist between knowledge and practice. These gaps are largely attributable to financial, policy-related, and technical hurdles. To address these issues, it is recommended that stakeholders prioritize the development of targeted funding mechanisms, invest in comprehensive training and capacity-building programs, and formulate more supportive policy frameworks. Such measures are crucial to facilitating the broader adoption of renewable energy technologies in academic library settings, ultimately contributing to sustainable and reliable power solutions for ICT infrastructure.


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