Owners’ interest
It was only in cases where there has been continuous interest and where strict supervision is provided
that successful performance of the plant is usually realized. The reverse was true where owners lacked
interest.
Chapter Nine
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Factors affecting acceptability of the technology
Basic requirements for a successful operation
Any factor that affects successful performance of a biogas plant has a bearing on the acceptability of
the technology. In areas where the first installed plant performed well, word of mouth from satisfied
users encouraged other potential users to install their own plants. Where plants failed, the failure
created a negative impact on the technology, discouraging potential users in the process.
Social influence created by successfully operated biogas plants is a necessary condition for wider
dissemination and acceptability of technology.
Support from promoting agencies
Establishment of a post-installation support service has led to continued interest from users. The
operation and maintenance of the plants have been regular and high levels of use registered. A good
example is found in areas served by the biogas extension services (BES) of CITC. Officials of BES visit
users regularly to ensure proper operation of the plants and provide advice and repair services where
necessary.
If plants work well, the users are encouraged to take good care of them so that they can continue to
realise the benefits. At the same time, they provide effective 'advertisement' for the promotion of biogas
technology.
Indirect competition for financial resources by other technologies
The introduction and promotion of PV technology since the mid 1980s has had a negative effect on the
use of biogas technology especially in areas where both technologies are promoted together. PV systems
generate electric power that can run small televisions, radios and lighting systems for households.
These systems are not in direct competition with biogas systems because each fulfil a different set of
user needs. Biogas is mainly used for cooking and lighting and its effluent used as fertiliser, while PV
systems are mainly used for lighting and operating small electrical appliances such as radios and
televisions. It has been noticed, however, that more often than not, most rural farmers can only afford
one of the two technologies and if a decision is made to purchase a PV system, then the farmer will not
be able to raise the money to construct a biogas plant.
In many instances in Meru district, many of the potential users of biogas have installed a PV system
and consequently, are unable to install biogas plants. PV systems are also associated with financially
successful people thus creating social pressure on many people to turn to it.
Cost
The initial investment cost of biogas systems is high, posing a big problem to many potential users who
are unable to raise money up front. In addition, there are no mechanisms or schemes through which
farmers can borrow money to acquire biogas plants.
The rising costs of components and adverse economic conditions in recent years have reduced
disposable incomes in the country. Potential buyers are becoming fewer. Hence cost is a serious
constraint to dissemination of biogas technology.