Factors inhibiting energy access in the delivery of construction projects in Lagos Metropolis, Nigeria

Abstract

Energy plays a vital role in all human endeavours. However, access to energy globally is limited, and concerted efforts are being made to bridge this gap. Little empirical works exist on the energy situation in the delivery of construction and infrastructure projects in Nigeria. The specific objectives of this study assessed the level of access to energy sources, factors inhibiting energy access, and benefits of energy access for the delivery of construction projects. Data reported in this paper were collected through a quantitative research approach whereby copies of the questionnaire were administered to small, medium, and large-sized construction firms in Lagos Metropolis, Nigeria. This study’s findings revealed that the most accessible energy source for construction activities in Lagos Metropolis is automotive gas oil (diesel). Furthermore, the study established that factors inhibiting access to energy for the delivery of construction projects are efficient supply and distribution, government regulation, and inadequate infrastructure. The paper concludes that access to energy for construction works in Nigeria is inadequate due to poor implementation of government policies on energy provision. The paper recommends creating new strategies to implement policies to improve access to energy in Nigeria.