Chapter One
INTRODUCTION
Summary of the findings
Biogas is most commonly used for cooking and lighting. Many users appreciate the value of the effluent
from the digester and use it as manure on their farms.
In Kenya, the most widely disseminated plant is the Floating Drum type of which there are three
different makes, namely:
• the Borda-sasse (or Meru plant) which is promoted by the Special Energy Programme Ministry
of Energy and Regional Development (SEP/ MOERD)
• the Hutchinson type designed and disseminated by Tunnel Technology Limited (TTL)
• the Kentainers type developed by Kentainers Limited, a local company.
In addition, there is a Fixed Dome type which is disseminated by the Christian Intermediate Technology
Centre (CITC).
Biogas technology is a cost-effective investment if plants are properly constructed, effectively operated
and well maintained. It was, however, noticed that there are many abandoned biogas plants in the
country. It is estimated that only 25% of the installed units are operational, thus disreputing the
technology. Continued use of plants is linked to the dissemination strategy adopted· by the promoting
agency. High levels of use were observed in areas where the dissemination was followed with planned
monitoring and support to the users. However, in areas where close follow-up activities were lacking,
the level of use was low.
The potential for biogas technology is limited to agricultural areas with high population densities. This
is further restricted to farmers who can raise capital needed to meet the basic requirements to ensure
successful operation of the plant.
Constraints
The main constraints to dissemination ofbiogas technology include:
• Initial high investment cost
• Lack of credit schemes to help farmers to acquire plants
• Disrepute created by the many failed biogas plants
• Limited private sector involvement. There is no profit motive among the main disseminating
agencies, hence the lack of driving force resulting in poor penetration of the market
• Lack of financial support for small firms and individuals to set up effective business operations
in the sector
• Minimal disposable income among farmers and competing needs for the limited available
financial resources.
This review raised the following question: Is biogas technology viable in Kenya? The publication
concludes that:
• Biogas technology is a viable source of energy. Factors that determine its viability include high
population densities resulting in scarcity of land, which in turn encourages zero-grazing
activities that are vital to successful adoption of the technology. These features do not
necessarily define the absolute ingredients for viability because resources are needed for the
construction of plants and other accessories.
• The scope for dissemination ofbiogas technology is presently limited. Majority of the rural
farmers do not meet the basic requirements for successful operation of the plant. Furthermore,
most do not have the resources to acquire the technology.
• As land continues to diminish and traditional fuel sources decline, opportunities for wider
dissemination of the technology will emerge, provided people have the resources.