Policy Report: 2024 • Terrawatt Environmental
In 2024, Terrawatt introduced its Zero Waste and Low Emissions Policy as a core component of its sustainability transformation. This initiative responds to both global environmental imperatives and the company's desire to lead responsibly within the Nigerian oil and gas servicing sector.
The policy emphasizes waste prevention, materials reuse, and emissions reduction across all business operations. It reflects the company's proactive stance on environmental stewardship, regulatory compliance, and operational excellence.
By embedding this policy into its business culture, Terrawatt is redefining how service companies can align profitability with environmental responsibility. The policy serves as a long-term blueprint for a cleaner, more efficient energy future.
The Zero Waste and Low Emissions Policy aims to significantly reduce landfill contributions, lower greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and eliminate avoidable environmental pollutants from Terrawatt's activities. It aligns with the Nigerian Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) framework and the Paris Agreement goals for climate action.
The policy also ties directly into Terrawatt's broader Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategy and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Strategically, this policy positions Terrawatt as a green-forward company in a high-carbon industry.
The policy applies to all Terrawatt operations, including project sites, logistics bases, administrative offices, and supply chain activities. It also extends to contractors and subcontractors operating on behalf of Terrawatt.
This comprehensive scope ensures that sustainability performance is not siloed or limited to corporate environments alone. Whether managing drilling fluids, transporting equipment, or maintaining diesel generators, each activity is evaluated for waste generation and emission intensity.
At the core of Terrawatt's approach is the waste hierarchy—reduce, reuse, recycle, and recover. In 2024, priority was placed on waste prevention at source, using smarter inventory planning and modular engineering to reduce excess materials.
For instance, cutting fluid consumption through precision cutting equipment significantly reduced metal scrap generation during maintenance operations. Packaging waste was reduced by requiring suppliers to switch to bulk and returnable containers.
Terrawatt scaled up reuse and recycling efforts by introducing on-site sorting stations and partnering with licensed waste recovery firms. Used oil filters, batteries, and metal casings were diverted from landfills and repurposed through certified processes.
Hazardous waste requires a distinct and regulated approach under the policy. Terrawatt implemented strict protocols for the handling, storage, and disposal of spent chemicals, lubricants, and contaminated PPE.
Secure, labeled drums and secondary containment units were deployed at all operational sites. Waste manifests and tracking documents were digitized to ensure real-time accountability. Disposal was carried out through NESREA-approved vendors to ensure compliance and environmental protection.
While Terrawatt is a servicing company and not an upstream producer, it supports clients in achieving zero routine flaring targets. In 2024, the company phased out outdated high-emission equipment such as low-efficiency compressors and generators.
These were replaced with Tier 4-certified engines and hybrid power solutions, significantly reducing CO₂ and particulate emissions. Flare gas recovery technology was piloted on one client site, allowing gas that would typically be flared to be used for power generation.
A key aspect of the policy was to quantify Terrawatt's carbon footprint through a structured emissions inventory. The company began tracking Scope 1 emissions from its fleet and generators, and Scope 2 emissions from purchased electricity.
Emission data was collected monthly and benchmarked against industry standards. This data provided insights into which business units were the most carbon-intensive and where energy-saving opportunities existed.
Terrawatt's fleet and generators are among its largest emitters. To address this, the company launched a diesel reduction program in Q2 2024. Measures included route optimization using GPS tracking, scheduled maintenance to prevent overuse, and remote power monitoring to avoid idling.
To support its low-emissions target, Terrawatt began integrating renewable energy solutions into its operational base infrastructure. The Lagos headquarters now runs partially on solar energy, with a 30 kW rooftop system installed in early 2024.
The system supplies power to lighting, IT equipment, and HVAC systems, significantly reducing grid and generator reliance. The company is conducting feasibility studies for hybrid installations in Warri and Port Harcourt.
Successful implementation of the policy depends on employee involvement. All staff underwent training on the Zero Waste and Low Emissions Policy during onboarding and quarterly refreshers. Visual signage, e-learning modules, and toolbox talks helped reinforce best practices in waste segregation and fuel efficiency.
Employees were encouraged to submit ideas through the internal "Green Solutions Portal," leading to innovations in packaging reuse and energy conservation. A reward system was introduced for teams that met or exceeded waste and emission targets.
In 2024, Terrawatt collaborated with local and international partners to amplify its environmental impact. The company joined industry alliances focused on circular economy practices in oilfield operations. Collaborations with waste recycling vendors helped improve the quality and scale of material recovery.
Technical partnerships enabled emissions monitoring and analysis through remote IoT sensors. In addition, Terrawatt worked with community groups to reduce litter and promote proper disposal habits.
To enforce the policy, Terrawatt established an internal audit schedule and compliance monitoring framework. Independent HSE auditors conducted site visits to evaluate waste and emissions management performance. Non-compliances were tracked, corrective actions assigned, and follow-ups scheduled.
Monthly dashboards reported compliance scores and incident reports to executive leadership. These audits created accountability while also identifying continuous improvement opportunities. Regulatory compliance remained 100% throughout 2024.
Suppliers and vendors were also brought under the policy through revised procurement standards. Contractors were required to demonstrate environmental certifications or submit sustainability plans. Contracts included clauses on proper waste disposal, emission controls, and use of low-impact materials.
Site mobilization checklists now included environmental readiness assessments for third-party service providers. By holding the supply chain to the same standards, Terrawatt minimized indirect environmental impacts.
The policy's success relies heavily on tracking and reporting performance indicators. Terrawatt adopted key metrics such as waste recovery rate, emissions intensity per project, diesel use per kilometer, and waste-to-landfill percentage.
Monthly reports are submitted to senior management and used to guide strategic decisions. These metrics are also disclosed in the company's ESG summaries and will form part of the full sustainability report in 2025.
While 2024 saw major successes, implementation of the policy faced several challenges. Inconsistent infrastructure in remote sites made it difficult to implement recycling systems universally. High costs of low-emission technology limited rapid equipment upgrades.
Some contractors resisted compliance due to increased operational burdens. Nonetheless, these challenges were addressed through incremental upgrades, capacity building, and improved enforcement.
The policy delivered both ecological and financial returns. Waste disposal costs dropped by over 20% due to increased recycling and material reuse. Diesel savings translated into reduced operating expenses and maintenance costs.
Environmental benefits included improved air quality, reduced soil contamination, and minimized environmental incidents. Moreover, compliance with emissions standards helped secure new project bids and client confidence.
Terrawatt's proactive stance has begun influencing peers and clients within Nigeria's energy services sector. Several companies have sought guidance or adopted similar waste and emissions protocols. Participation in industry panels and conferences allowed Terrawatt to share lessons learned and advocate for sector-wide change.
By demonstrating what is possible, the company is raising the bar for sustainability in oil and gas services. This leadership also boosts Terrawatt's brand and investor appeal.
Looking ahead, Terrawatt plans to deepen its commitment through expanded renewable energy integration, carbon offset programs, and AI-powered waste tracking. Research is underway into biodegradable materials and circular economy models for service equipment.
The 2025–2027 roadmap includes zero landfill operations and electrification of its vehicle fleet. Internal carbon pricing models are being explored to guide investment decisions. These future commitments reflect the company's view that sustainability is a journey, not a destination.
Terrawatt's Zero Waste and Low Emissions Policy represents a bold, necessary step in an industry undergoing fundamental change. Through strategic planning, rigorous implementation, and broad stakeholder engagement, the company has made significant progress in minimizing its environmental impact.
The policy has created a framework for operational excellence, regulatory compliance, and climate responsibility. While challenges persist, the company's resolve remains strong. The experience of 2024 proves that sustainability and profitability are not mutually exclusive.
Terrawatt will continue leading by example, driving the energy services sector toward a cleaner, more resilient future.