Nigeria Requires Oil Licence Applicants to Prove Low Carbon Emissions

New policy mandates evidence of renewable energy initiatives and carbon reduction plans

Nigeria’s upstream regulatory agency will now require oil licence applicants to provide proof of low carbon emissions and a renewable energy programme before approval. The policy is part of Nigeria’s broader goal to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2060.

According to Gbenga Komolafe, CEO of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, the new measure will be enforced from January 1, 2025, and applies to all upstream sector approvals, including divestments. Applicants must follow the newly issued Upstream Petroleum Decarbonisation Template (UPDT).

The policy also calls for operators to implement methane management programs, optimize operations using energy-efficient technologies, and integrate renewable energy into projects to align with both national and international climate goals.

News source: OGN