Impact of Petroleum Contamination on Crop Production and Remediation Strategies: A Case Study of Ese-Odo Local Government Area, Ondo State

Abstract

Tropical monsoon climates present unique challenges and opportunities for solar energy utilization due to seasonal variability in cloud cover and solar radiation. This study examines the solar energy dynamics of Ogbomoso, Nigeria, a representative tropical monsoon region, through an integrated analysis of measured and predicted solar radiation (MJ/m²/day), monthly sunshine duration (hrs), and clearness index (CI). Using data spanning a full annual cycle, the study identifies pronounced seasonal trends: solar radiation peaks at 6.5–7.0 MJ/m²/day during the dry season (March–April) but declines sharply to 4.0–4.5 MJ/m²/day in the monsoon months (June–August), coinciding with reduced sunshine hours (3.5–4.5 hrs) and lower CI values (0.45–0.50). These patterns align with the West African monsoon, which drives increased cloud cover and rainfall, attenuating solar penetration. While predictive models broadly align with measured radiation, systematic overestimations during monsoon months highlight gaps in accounting for cloud microphysics and aerosol interactions. The clearness index emerges as a critical bridge between sunshine duration and solar radiation, quantifying cloud attenuation effects that sunshine metrics alone fail to capture. To address seasonal energy shortfalls, the study proposes adaptive strategies, including hybrid solar-biogas systems, machine learning-enhanced radiation modeling, and agrovoltaic land-use practices. Policy recommendations emphasize decentralized energy solutions and community engagement to bolster climate resilience. By contextualizing localized findings within broader tropical energy research, this work underscores the necessity of integrating meteorological data and adaptive infrastructure in monsoon-affected regions. The results offer a replicable framework for optimizing solar energy planning in similar climates, balancing abundant dry-season potential with monsoon-driven constraints to advance sustainable, low-carbon energy transitions.

Keywords: Petroleum Contamination, Oil spills, Agricultural impact, Remediation strategies, Food security.

Citation: Ugwuja A.N., Olugbemiro O. A., Abubakar A.M., Akinkuolie A.O. & Usman M. (2025). Impact of Petroleum Contamination on Crop Production and Remediation Strategies: A Case Study of Ese-Odo Local Government Area, Ondo State. Journal of Education, Science and Technology 2025, (1) 1.83-93.

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