TITLE:
Energy Efficiency of Residential Building: Case Study in Tujereng Village the Gambia
AUTHORS:
Omar Marena, Mariama Marong
KEYWORDS:
Limited Electricity Access, Private Generators, Renewable Energy, Emissions, Climate Change, Energy Efficiency Strategies, LED Lighting, Energy Audits, Policy Compliance
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Access Library Journal,
Vol.10 No.10,
October
30,
2023
ABSTRACT: The Gambia faces challenges in its energy sector, with limited access to electricity, a reliance on private generators and non-renewable energy sources that produce noise and emissions. These issues contribute to climate change and global warming. To address this, the country plans to implement national energy efficiency strategies in May 2022 to combat energy poverty and improve economic and social well-being. The paper focuses on two key aspects: providing recommendations for policymakers and assessing public awareness of energy efficiency. The results reveal that many Gambian residents lack knowledge about energy efficiency, electricity access, and sustainability, despite government efforts to develop energy-efficient policies. To address this awareness gap, the government should launch an education program through various media channels and workshops. Additionally, the country could enhance energy efficiency by replacing traditional lighting with LED lamps, optimizing street lighting, and supporting equipment procurement. Collaboration between the government, financial institutions, and private stakeholders is essential to provide loans and support well-designed and efficient energy projects. The Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) should conduct energy audits of public buildings to ensure compliance with energy efficiency measures, both in policy and implementation, with institutional and financial backing. Ultimately, prioritizing energy efficiency can lead to reduced electricity costs, lower carbon emissions, and improved public health. This can be achieved through information and capacity building, financial incentives, and the establishment of relevant laws and regulations.