Assessing the Potential for Biodigesters in Kenya
The African Biodigester Component (ABC), one of EnDev’s associated projects, has embarked on a study to assess the available feedstock for small and medium-scale biodigesters in Kenya. The outcomes of this research aim to provide crucial market intelligence for biodigester companies, ultimately contributing to the growth of the biodigester market in the country.
Kenya holds substantial development potential for biogas, particularly in the context of dairy farming, where the technology is gaining recognition for replacing wood fuel and providing organic fertilizers at a minimal cost. The primary obstacle to adoption often lies in the significant upfront investment required for installation.
By pinpointing areas with optimal conditions for biodigester installation, companies can streamline their efforts, reduce costs, and maximize the impact of their businesses. The study’s findings are expected to guide strategic decisions related to market expansion, ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently to areas with the greatest potential. The insights derived from the study will not only benefit biodigester companies but also enable national and local authorities to tailor their support interventions for biogas. Focusing on areas with the highest potential can lead to more effective and targeted support programmes, aligning with ABC’s commitment to transitioning the biodigester market from its pioneering phase to the expansion phase.
In the study, the potential for biodigesters has been divided into small-scale (0 to 50m3) and medium-scale (50 to 500m3) biodigesters. The study estimates the potential for small-scale biodigesters at more than 700,000 units, sourced from dairy cows, pig farms, coffee wet mills, slaughterhouses, and slaughter slabs. The potential for medium-scale biodigesters in Kenya is also huge, projected at more than 100,000 units, originating from commercial dairy and pig farms, coffee wet mills, flower farms, slaughterhouses, prisons, sisal, and wastewater treatment plants.
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About the African Biodigester Component
Funded by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs (DGIS), the Danish International Development Agency (DANIDA), the European Union (EU), and coordinated by the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO), the African Biodigester Component (ABC) aims at facilitating a shift of the biodigester market from its current pioneering phase to the expansion phase. The component is implemented by a consortium between GIZ and SNV in cooperation with Africa Bioenergy Programmes Limited (formerly called Kenya Biogas Programme).
