A source of clean energy for lighting and for cooking
Project background
Expanding access to affordable and clean energy is critical to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, especially SDG 7.
In Nigeria 94% of the population still lacks access to clean and affordable energy for lighting and cooking. The situation is particularly acute in the north of the country, where the project is being developed.
The use of traditional biomass and coal for cooking is related to severe health risks, specially affecting women and children. Nigeria experiences the highest number of smoke-related deaths in Africa. In this country cooking smoke is reported as third cause of dead, after Malaria and HIV/AIDS.
In addition, it causes deforestation and climate change, and its cost is usually higher than other sources of energy in more developed countries.
The novel biogas technology
Biogas production from fermenting Typha can provide a source of clean energy for lighting and for cooking. As an alternative to costly gas, this innovative solution has the potential to greatly improve the health and livelihood of families.
The project opts to a circular economy model. Making the most of typha as a resource in all the stages of the value chain the project aims to minimize waste. The remains after biogas production doesn’t have much value for animal feeding. However, as co-product of biogas, it can be an organic fertilizer according to the particular needs of local communities.
