Title: Energy consumption and climate change in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA)

Authors: A. Akinyemi Ajibola; Wisdom Okere; Oreoluwa Adedeji; Obiajulu Chibuzo Okeke; Cynthia Okere

Addresses: Bells University of Technology, Ota, Ogun, Nigeria ' Bells University of Technology, Ota, Ogun, Nigeria ' Bells University of Technology, Ota, Ogun, Nigeria ' Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu Alike, Ikwo, Ebonyi State, Nigeria ' Bells University of Technology, Ota, Ogun, Nigeria

Abstract: This study analysed energy consumption and climate change in SSA to validate the Environmental Kuznet Curve (EKC) theory. This study included multiple econometric tests, Autoregressive Distributed Lagged model (ARDL), Fully Modified Ordinary Least Squares (FMOLS) regression analysis and Granger Causality Test. In the long run, Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and Electricity consumption (ELE) have a positive and significant relationship with climate change, measured by carbon dioxide emissions, while Fossil energy consumption (FOS) and Renewable Energy Consumption (REN) do not. ELE has a positive relationship with climate change as assessed by carbon dioxide emissions, while FOS and REN have a negative association. Only the ELE and FOS coefficients are significant at 5%. Since fossil fuels and renewable energy do not contribute to long-term climate change, energy consumption patterns have started to reflect their environmental policies. More eco-friendly techniques are needed to reduce electricity's environmental impact. The EKC theory found that SSA countries are evolving so that economic growth's negative effects on climate change will be reversed. The study advises policymakers to adopt renewable energy to cut carbon dioxide emissions.

Keywords: climate change; carbon dioxide emission; energy consumption; Sub-Saharan Africa; sustainability.

DOI: 10.1504/IJGEI.2025.143349

International Journal of Global Energy Issues, 2025 Vol.47 No.1/2, pp.1 - 21

Received: 08 Sep 2022
Accepted: 17 Oct 2023
Published online: 16 Dec 2024 *