Policy Framework for Managing Decommissioned Solar Power Systems in the Niger Delta: A Scientometric Report

The Niger Delta region has experienced substantial growth in the deployment of solar power systems (SPSs) to meet the energy requirements of its populace. As these systems reach their end-of-life, appropriate management strategies are crucial to minimize environmental footprints and maximize resource recovery. This scientometrics paper was aimed at assessing government regulations for managing decommissioned SPSs in the core Niger Delta. The study adopted a quantitative approach method using questionnaire as the research instrument. Thirty six (36) government officials from the strata of 3 States were investigated on the policy framework deployed for decommissioned SPSs. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were used in the analysis of data and discussion of results. Results revealed that government officials are inept with the policy instruments that promote renewable energy and green energy technologies in the setup of SPSs and its management at their end-of-life. Among others, it was recommended that these government agencies should embrace and domesticate the key 8 policy instruments, as well as implement sustainable management strategies therein for handling wastes from SPSs for the policy framework used in the study area. Keywords: Solar power systems (SPSs), Niger Delta, Management Strategies, Solar PV panels