Energy Use Practices in Households across Selected Communities in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, Nigeria

Abstract

Household energy choices shape economic, environmental, and health outcomes, including deforestation and carbon emissions. This study assessed household energy use in selected communities of Guma Local Government Area, Benue State, Nigeria. Using a multi-stage sampling approach guided by security and proximity, 110 respondents were surveyed with structured questionnaires. Data were analysed using ANOVA, Spearman correlation, and multiple regression to examine how income, employment, and education influence energy preferences. Respondents were predominantly female (89.1%) and aged 21 - 50 years (90.8%). Over half (51.8%) reported no income, and only 2.7% earned above ₦161,000 monthly. Most households spent ₦0 - ₦4,000 (56.4%) or ₦5,000 - ₦10,000 (25.5%) on energy. Firewood (83.6%) and charcoal (81.8%) were the dominant fuels, chosen mainly for low cost (51.8%) and accessibility (25.5%). The most common energy mix was firewood, charcoal, and gas (81.8%). Firewood use declined with rising income, while gas use increased. Cooking gas and firewood were strongly negatively correlated (r = −0.981, p < 0.01). Firewood remained the most used fuel across employment categories, especially among the unemployed (mean = 13.28 ± 0.00). Regression results (R = 1.000, R² = 1.000) confirmed income as a strong predictor of energy patterns. Wealthier, more educated households adopted cleaner fuels, whereas low-income and unemployed households relied on biomass. Policies improving affordability, access, and awareness of cleaner alternatives are needed to support a sustainable energy transition.