Long-term viability of biochar-producing gasifier stoves for energy and agricultural solutions in rural Kenya

Abstract

This report examines the long-term usage and satisfaction levels of a biochar-producing gasifier stove among rural households in Kenya. The primary objective was to investigate the factors that influence stove satisfaction and dissatisfaction among participants, with the aim of assessing the gasifier stove's viability as an alternative for rural households. Data for this study was collected from representatives from 30 households through survey-based interviews covering cooking practices, fuel collection, and user experiences with the gasifier stove six years after receiving it. The findings indicate that households typically use multiple stoves. Almost all participants used the three stone stove on a daily basis, while the gasifier stove had a lower use frequency. Although households acknowledged the benefits of the gasifier stove, they expressed difficulties in relying on it as their primary cooking appliance due to its lack of convenience. The main contributing factors were the additional workload required for fuel preparation and the extended cooking time. Participants prepared various dishes using the gasifier stove, and the char produced by the stove was utilized for cooking, farming, and other purposes. The differences between users and non-users in terms of perception of stove benefits were small, though users appreciated the biochar production more than non-users. The study offers insights into the long-term usage of the gasifier stove and its dual potential as a clean cooking solution, and a biochar-producing technology, for rural households across the world.