Investigating the Energy Implications of Urban Heat Island Effects in Abuja, Federal Capital Territory

Rapid urban expansion and land-use transformation in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory, have intensified urban heat island effects that directly increase building cooling energy demands and thermal discomfort for urban residents. This study investigates the energy implications of urban heat island effects in selected districts of Abuja, analysing temperature differentials between urban and peri-urban zones and their impact on residential and commercial cooling energy consumption. Land surface temperature data derived from Landsat 8 satellite imagery across four seasons were analysed to map heat island intensity across Abuja's urban districts. Correlation analyses were performed between urbanisation indicators including impervious surface cover and vegetation index values and measured temperature anomalies. Building energy simulation using EnergyPlus was applied to a representative residential block to quantify the increase in air conditioning energy demand attributable to urban heat island conditions. Concurrent household surveys collected data on actual air conditioning use, electricity bills, and thermal comfort perceptions. Results reveal temperature differentials of 2.8 to 4.5 degrees Celsius between densely built districts and green buffer zones, corresponding to an estimated 22 percent increase in cooling energy demand in the most affected areas. The study recommends urban greening strategies, cool roof adoption, and tree planting programmes as energy-efficient urban heat mitigation measures. Keywords: urban heat island, Abuja, cooling energy, building energy simulation, urban planning.