Nigerian Researcher Turns Hybrid Non-edible and Waste Vegetable Oils into Cleaner Turbine Fuel

By Ugo Aliogo

Dr. Wunuken Carlos Solomon, along with his team, is breaking new ground in the use of alternative fuels for turbine engines by converting a hybrid of non-edible oils from Jatropha and Neem, as well as waste vegetable oils, into clean-burning biodiesel suitable for power generation. His work addresses two urgent issues for Nigeria: excessive energy emissions and environmental pollution from fossil fuels.

In an interview with ThisDay, Solomon explained that most of Nigeria’s turbine systems use fossil fuels, specifically natural gas and oil, with high carbon outputs. “Waste oils remain one of the most significant but most underutilized energy resources in the country,” he said. “When processed correctly, they can power turbines with performance levels comparable to traditional fuels but with fewer emissions.”

As a Power and Energy Systems Researcher, Dr. Solomon concentrates on improving the ignition quality and thermal stability of biodiesel blends used to power gas turbines. His research reveals critical combustion challenges that have impeded the widespread adoption of biofuels in high-temperature turbine systems. According to him, “Operating gas turbines on biodiesels involves adjusting viscosity and atomization behavior so the fuel can withstand turbine combustion and remain operable, or vaporizing through the lean-premixed, pre-vaporized technology without degrading performance.”

Energy experts say his breakthrough could save Nigeria billions spent on imported turbine fuel while reducing environmental degradation from waste dumping. “The economics of waste-to-power can completely transform energy access and affordability in Nigeria,” said Prof. D.M. Kulla, a renewable systems analyst not affiliated with the research.

While widespread adoption remains a future goal, Dr. Solomon believes Nigeria is ready for a significant shift. “The energy transition will not start in oil wells,” he said. “It will start in our waste bins.”