Private sector involvement
Presently, only a few private firms are seriously involved in the promotion of the technology. The profit
motive is a necessary ingredient for wider involvement of the private sector. That would provide the
basis for its effective dissemination and sustainability.
Labour input
Some users are concerned by the high labour input that the plant requires.
The commitment needed is also high and some who installed the plants had not anticipated such high
labour costs. This has discouraged some potential users and occasionally led to loss of interest and
eventual abandonment of the plants.
Viability
Is biogas technology viable in Kenya? The authors conclude that there is scope for dissemination of the
technology provided the approach used currently is slightly modified. Some modifications are to be
done through follow-up and post-installation support. If the current situation continues, the scope of
successful dissemination is limited. It is clear that majority of rural farmers in Kenya do not meet the
basic requirements for successful operation of biogas plants, but there are areas where community
members could afford the technology.
On whether or not the technology is viable, one can say that it is a viable alternative source of energy to
specific areas. Such areas are characterised by high population, scarcity of land and zero-grazing
activities. The community in the area should, however, support the operations. Resources such as water
and cows are a prerequisite for viability of such projects.
The future provides potential and opportunities to disseminate the technology. Land in Kenya is getting
scarce while biomass fuel resources are declining. Both provide an, opportunity for biogas technology
dissemination.
General recommendations
Generalized opinions can be made targeting specific organisations interested in promoting biogas
technology.
1. Market potential should be established before the technology is introduced in any part of the
country. This would save resources that may be wasted in promoting the technology where it is
not viable, and where in fact the conditions for successful dissemination are absent.
2. Government agencies, NGOs and church organisations promoting the technology should involve
the private sector, as it is well placed to effect better marketing strategies and to build grounds
for sustainability.
3. In areas with good market potential, and where the technology already exists, there is need to:
• counter the negative publicity on the technology created by failed biogas plants.
Stalled projects could be revived where possible.
• promote and disseminate biogas plant designs and models of proven performance and
durability.
• offer after-installation support to customers.
4. To encourage more people to use biogas technology, there is need to explore ways of lowering
the cost. Examples of cost-lowering initiatives are the Kentainers' and Hutchinson types. They
have great potential, and promoting agencies should seek collaboration with agencies or
manufacturers interested in exploring such alternatives.
5. Schemes should be established to provide financial support to small firms and individuals
promoting the technology so as to enable them operate more efficiently and effectively.