Sahara Group highlights three-pronged net zero plan in 2023 Sustainability Report
Bamidele Famoofo
Strategic investment in gas assets and infrastructure, integration of renewable energy and emissions reduction through nature-based solutions are strategies that will drive Sahara Group’s net zero plan, Ejiro Gray, director, governance and sustainability, has said.
Speaking at the launch of the energy conglomerate’s 2023 Sustainability Report, titled, “Dimensioning the Energy Transition: Path to Net Zero,” Gray said the three-pronged strategy reinforces Sahara’s commitment towards a more sustainable future, with 2060 as the net zero target for Sahara’s operations across Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.
“This sustainability report underscores our steadfast commitment to addressing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors across our diverse operations along the energy value chain. As a business, we showcase a multifaceted strategy to minimise our environmental impact. This includes various initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, optimise energy efficiency, and responsibly manage resources,” she said.
According to Gray, Sahara Group acknowledges the role of natural gas as a crucial bridge fuel and is already expanding investments in gas to ensure energy security while taking tangible steps towards reducing reliance on fossil fuels and contributing to a cleaner energy mix by launching pilot solar projects.
She noted that in pursuit of emissions reduction, Sahara Group embraced nature-based solutions through investments and partnerships in reforestation and conservation projects. “Our partnership with Treedom exemplifies this commitment, with the planting of 2,000 trees in Cameroon and Kenya expected to absorb a substantial 900,000 tonnes of CO2 over the next decade,” she added.
Sahara Group’s path to net-zero emissions has been tiered into distinct phases. In the short term (2022-2030), the focus will be on reducing carbon footprint through initiatives like fleet electrification, cycling programs, and energy efficiency measures. In the medium term (2031-2040), Sahara will look to further diversify its energy portfolio and increase investments in renewable energy projects. Ultimately, the goal is to achieve net-zero emissions by 2060 by offsetting any remaining emissions through nature-based solutions and other carbon reduction initiatives.
Bethel Obioma, head, corporate communications, said the report’s comprehensive scope encompasses various affiliates within the Sahara Group, including Asharami Energy, Sahara Trade, Asharami Synergy, Egbin Power, First Independent Power Limited, Ikeja Electric, and the Sahara Group Foundation.
Obioma said Sahara’s upstream operations recorded a reduction in carbon footprint and exceptional host community relations which led to the implementation of impactful projects focused on enhancing livelihoods, education, and healthcare. “Launching our Gas to Power project, providing 24-hour electricity to the Ajoki Community in Edo State—a first-of-its-kind initiative, achieving ISO 20400 certification for sustainable procurement and recording a remarkable 3 million Lost Time Injury (LTI) free man-hours, underscores our dedication to both social impact and operational safety,” he said.
He said Sahara also achieved successful outcomes from its midstream, downstream, and power businesses through substantial reductions in carbon emissions, focus on operational efficiency, and implementation of renewable energy sources and energy efficiency measures.