Evolving energy choices: Analyzing the dynamics of clean cooking fuel transition in Nigeria

Abstract

The transition to clean cooking fuels is essential for improving human health, enhancing environmental sustainability and promoting socio-economic growth and development, especially in developing countries, Nigeria inclusive. This study investigates the factors that influence household cooking fuel transitions by analyzing the data from the General Household Survey 2015–2016 and 2018–2019 waves. With the aid of a multinomial logistic regression model, the study investigates how different dynamic factors — including urbanization, income levels, educational attainment of household heads, and access to clean cooking fuels — are related to households' shifts toward clean cooking fuels. The logistic regression results showed that while urbanization and increased income significantly boost the transition to clean cooking fuels, some factors like large family sizes, absence of clean energy sources, and low educational levels hinder this transition. This study adds to the existing literature by offering a more complex perspective on the fuel transitions in Nigeria, stating the importance of accessibility, education, and targeted interventions. To motivate energy choices of the household toward green, modern energy sources, our recommendations will be subsidizing clean cooking fuels, improving LPG distribution networks, energy literacy promotion, and community-based programs. These approaches are crucial for relieving the health hazards associated with traditional cooking techniques and promoting the sustainable growth of Nigeria.