Assessment of Flood Risks on Power Infrastructure and Renewable Energy Installations in Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni Local Government Area, Rivers State
Abstract
This research evaluated the flood hazards that impact power systems and renewable energy setups in the Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni Local Government Area located in Rivers State, Nigeria. The primary goals included investigating how vulnerable energy infrastructure is to factors such as flood depth, speed, and duration; studying the vital interconnections between energy networks and other crucial services including water provision, healthcare, and transport; and calculating the economic damage and downtime caused by flood effects. A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was used alongside case studies and analytical methods. Information was gathered through structured questionnaires, interviews, and firsthand observations from a sample of 378 individuals chosen through stratified random sampling from key communities in ONELGA. Additionally, secondary information from credible institutional and academic resources was incorporated. The quantitative data analysis utilized descriptive statistics, while qualitative information was reviewed thematically. Geographic Information Systems techniques were also employed to evaluate the spatial patterns of flood vulnerability. Results indicated that energy infrastructure within ONELGA is extremely susceptible to flooding, with 92% of participants reporting power outages during significant flood events. The infrastructure that was most impacted included transformers and substations, followed by electricity poles and renewable energy setups. Flood- related power interruptions greatly disrupted vital services, such as water supply (62.4%), communication (56.1%), health services (48.7%), and transportation (44.4%). The research also demonstrated strong connections between energy networks and socio-economic activities, with nearly half of the participants noting income reductions due to power outages and more than 50% suffering damage to their electrical devices. The average financial loss was calculated at ₦92,500, primarily affecting traders and fishermen. The downtime for infrastructure varied from one to eight weeks, suggesting extended recovery delays. The study concludes that energy infrastructure in ONELGA faces significant flooding risks, leading to considerable economic and social implications. It advocates for more resilient infrastructure designs, improved early warning mechanisms, and enhanced coordination among institutions to minimize vulnerability.
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