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ABSTRACT
This Study sought to investigate comparatively the socio-economic determinants of household energy consumption in Ugbowo and Ugbogiobo in Edo State. A total of 204 households were randomly selected for the study. The study was carried out with the aim of identifying the types of energy used for various purposes, socio-economic factors that influence such use, spatial preference and challenges encountered by households in sourcing for energy. Structured questionnaire was used for data collection. Table summaries, frequencies and percentages were used for data presentation. The findings show that households in Ugbowo rely more on gas (50.7%); while households in Ugbogiobo rely more on firewood (82.8%). Socio-economic factors were found to influence the types of energy used in both area. The choice of energy type utilized by households in Ugbowo is dependent on income, education, occupation and age while households in Ugbogiobo energy choice are dependent on income, cost of energy products, cultural beliefs and preference. Thus, the major determinant for household in Ugbowo and Ugbogiobo is income. Challenges encountered in sourcing for energy products in both areas (Ugbowo and Ugbogiobo) are income, collection time, distance and household size. Based on these findings the study concludes that households in Ugbowo tend to improve from low grade energy types to modern energy when income increases while households in Ugbogiobo still rely on low grade traditional energy as a result of their cultural belief and preference. The study recommends the sensitization of households on the health and environmental effects of traditional energy utilization. In relation to climate change, deforestation should be prohibited; smart and green energy should be made affordable and available in close proximity in other to overcome distance and cost of transportation, therefore, creating a sustainable environment for the next generation.
