MEMAN stands for Major Energies Marketers Association of Nigeria. An energy industry association comprising 11 Plc (formerly Mobil), Ardova Plc, Conoil Plc, MRS Oil Nigeria Plc, NNPC Retail Limited, and TotalEnergies Marketing Nigeria Plc.

What sectors does MEMAN focus on?

MEMAN focuses on the oil, gas, and renewable energy sectors, with specific emphasis on CNG and LPG for gas, solar energy and ethanol for renewable energy.

How does MEMAN promote transparency in the energy industry?

MEMAN promotes transparency by providing up-to-date information on fuel prices, stock market prices, and industry news on our website. We also engage in regular advocacy for compliance with industry regulations and ethical practices.

What is the purpose of MEMAN’s Competency Centre?

The Competency Centre is dedicated to fostering knowledge and skills within the energy industry, offering training, resources, and industry insights to help professionals stay informed and compliant with the latest standards and regulations.

How does MEMAN contribute to sustainable energy solutions?

MEMAN advocates for cleaner and more sustainable energy solutions through the promotion of natural gas (CNG & LPG), solar power and biofuels like ethanol. We also work closely with partners to encourage the adoption of renewable energy practices in Nigeria.

How can I stay updated on MEMAN’s activities and industry news?

You can stay updated by visiting our website, where we provide regular updates through our industry news, Competency Centre Bulletin, and weekly reports. You can also subscribe to our mailing list by registering at the competency centre, for direct updates.

How does MEMAN ensure compliance with industry standards?

MEMAN advocates for strict adherence to industry regulations and ethical practices. We provide guidance and resources to help companies stay compliant and regularly engage with regulatory bodies to influence positive change in the industry.

How can I get involved with MEMAN?

You can get involved with MEMAN by participating in our training programs, attending our webinars, subscribing to our newsletter, or collaborating with us on projects that align with our mission of promoting transparency and sustainability in the energy industry. You can also apply to become a member by going to our membership page.

Ethanol: Understanding Renewable Fuel Options

What is Ethanol?

Ethanol (C2H5OH) is a renewable, alcohol-based fuel produced through the fermentation and distillation of starch crops or cellulosic biomass. It serves as a cleaner alternative to fossil fuels, contributing to reduced greenhouse gas emissions.

Types of Ethanol Blends

Bioethanol: This is ethanol produced from biological materials such as crops (e.g., corn, cassava, sugarcane) or cellulosic biomass (e.g., wood, grasses). It is the most common form of ethanol used in fuel applications.
E100: Pure ethanol containing 100% ethanol. It is primarily used in specialised vehicles, especially in Brazil, where ethanol fuel is widely adopted.
E85: A high-level ethanol-petrol blend consisting of 85% ethanol and 15% petrol. It is used in flexible-fuel vehicles (FFVs), which are designed to operate on varying ethanol concentrations.
E10: A low-level ethanol-petrol blend containing 10% ethanol and 90% petrol. This blend is commonly used in regular vehicles and helps to reduce emissions and improve octane ratings.
E5: Another low-level ethanol-petrol blend with 5% ethanol and 95% petrol, also commonly used in regular vehicles.

Reference: Africa Practice

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author.

AFRICAN ENERGY SERIES

Ethanol-Compatible Vehicles

Flex-fuel vehicles (FFVs) are specially designed to run on any blend of ethanol up to 85% (E85) and petrol. These vehicles offer flexibility and contribute to the adoption of renewable fuels.

Production Processes

Fermentation: The biochemical process where sugars are converted into ethanol and carbon dioxide by the action of yeast or bacteria. This is the initial step in producing ethanol from biological feedstocks.
Distillation: The process of purifying ethanol by heating a liquid mixture to create vapour and then condensing the vapour back into liquid. This step is essential to achieve the desired ethanol purity.

Ethanol Specifications and Standards

Denatured Ethanol: Ethanol that has been mixed with small amounts of toxic substances, usually petrol, to make it unfit for human consumption. It is used for industrial purposes, such as blending with fuel for combustion engines.
Feedstock: The raw material used to produce ethanol. Common feedstocks include corn, cassava, sugarcane, and cellulosic biomass.
Blending: The process of mixing ethanol with petrol to produce ethanol-blended fuels like E5, E10, E15, or E85.

Environmental Impact and Fuel Quality

Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions: Ethanol production and use generally result in lower GHG emissions compared to fossil fuels, thanks to its renewable nature.
Ethanol Fuel Standard: Specifications set by the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) that ethanol-petrol blends must meet to ensure quality and performance.
Octane Rating and RON (Research Octane Number): Measures of a fuel’s ability to resist knocking during combustion. Ethanol has a higher octane rating and RON compared to petrol, which can improve engine performance and efficiency.

Additional Products from Ethanol Production

Co-Products: During ethanol production, additional products such as animal feed are generated, contributing to the overall sustainability and economic viability of the process.

Understanding these ethanol terminologies is essential for grasping the potential of ethanol as a renewable fuel. As the industry continues to evolve, both professionals and the public must stay informed about these key concepts to support the transition towards cleaner energy sources.

Author: Olise’ Wakwe

Brand, Media and Communications.

MEMAN