VUTSELA: Sustainable Farm-based Biogas Systems with Community Impact in Eswatini

Partners: Science Technology And Innovation For Development

Country: Eswatini (Swaziland)

Technology: Leave no one behind technologies and business models

Stage: Mid

Stage: Round 10

Eswatini’s is heavily dependent on South Africa and Mozambique for energy supplies, importing 80% of its electricity. Yet, as South African production facilities close, there will be a drop in liquefied petroleum gas. Since 71% of Eswatini’s land is agricultural, and feedstock for digestion is readily available, biogas could bridge the gap. Biogas generated sustainably from farm waste could satisfy household or light-industrial heating requirements.

During the course of the project Science Technology and Innovation for Development and Kainos Projects Africa will introduce 100 digesters and 15 prototypes to farms in Eswatini and neighbouring South Africa. This project aims to gain feedback through community engagement and a Smart Villages Research Group. This will help them understand the needs of local farms and communities. It will also inform design revisions before future commercial rollout.