Introduction

Mozambique, like many developing nations, faces significant challenges in meeting its energy needs while simultaneously striving for sustainable development. In recent years, the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) has emerged as a key player in promoting renewable energy solutions in Mozambique, with a particular focus on biogas. Biogas technology offers a promising avenue for addressing energy poverty, environmental sustainability, and economic development in the country.

This article explores UNIDO's efforts in promoting biogas as a sustainable energy solution in Mozambique.

Background

Mozambique is endowed with abundant biomass resources, including agricultural residues, animal manure, and organic waste.

“Cow dung and husk biogas are abundant and of high quality, there are fewer expenses as it technically reduces operational costs, having the advantage of efficiency, it is not toxic and not harmful to health.”, Samuel Gove: President, Samora Machel Cooperative.

However, the country's energy sector remains underdeveloped, with a significant portion of the population lacking access to modern and reliable energy services. Traditional fuels such as firewood and charcoal continue to dominate, leading to deforestation, indoor air pollution, and adverse health effects.

UNIDO recognizes the potential of biogas technology to address these challenges by utilizing organic waste to produce clean and renewable energy. Biogas systems capture methane emissions from decomposing organic matter and convert them into biogas, a versatile fuel that can be used for cooking, heating, and electricity generation.

UNIDO's Initiatives

UNIDO through the Towards Sustainable Energy for all in Mozambique (TSE4ALLM) project has been actively involved in promoting biogas technology in Mozambique through various initiatives aimed at building capacity, fostering innovation, and facilitating market development. Some key interventions include:

Capacity Building:

UNIDO conducts training programs and workshops to enhance the technical skills and knowledge of stakeholders involved in biogas project development, including policymakers, entrepreneurs, engineers, and farmers. These capacity-building efforts cover various aspects of biogas technology, including system design, construction, operation, and maintenance.

TSE4ALLM project Implementing partners like CHARIS Association, provide training for the installers and operators and establish small demonstration Biogas units in suitable small businesses and families processing coconut, cashew nuts and cassava in Inhambane Province.

Pilot Projects

UNIDO collaborates with local partners to implement pilot biogas projects across different regions of Mozambique. These projects serve as demonstration sites to showcase the feasibility and benefits of biogas technology in rural and peri-urban communities. By providing technical support and financial assistance, UNIDO helps to overcome barriers to adoption and scale up successful models.

In 2021, UNIDO in partnership with CHARIS-Associacao de Solidariedade Social, embarked on the process of the installation of simple, low-cost biogas plants for home and small business use in the coconut small businesses, cashew nut and cassava industries in the province of Inhambane province. The Josina Machel Cassava Processing Cooperative in Inharrime District produces 35,000 m3 (around 96 m3/day) of biogas for use in cooking (domestic, small, medium and large industries), refrigeration and lighting.

“Successful biogas demonstration units will promote interest in the community, so that adoption will become widespread. The early adopters will also gain experience and be able to promote the uses of Biogas and help other potential users”—Larsen Candido, Founder, CHARIS Association

Policy Support:

UNIDO engages with government agencies and policymakers to advocate for supportive policies and regulatory frameworks that facilitate the widespread deployment of biogas technology. This includes incentivizing investment, streamlining approval processes, and integrating biogas into national energy strategies and rural development plans.

Public Awareness

UNIDO conducts awareness campaigns and outreach activities to raise public awareness about the benefits of biogas technology and promote community participation. These efforts involve disseminating information through various channels, including radio broadcasts, educational materials, and community events, to foster a culture of sustainability and environmental stewardship.

“What we actually witness in the communities is the frequent use of firewood and all the inconveniences that this brings. UNIDO’s biogas project communities will be able to migrate to the use of biodigesters capable of producing enough gas”, Carlos Lucas, UEM

Market Development

UNIDO supports the development of sustainable biogas value chains by strengthening market linkages, promoting entrepreneurship, and facilitating access to finance. This includes establishing partnerships with local businesses, financial institutions, and technology suppliers to create opportunities for investment and market expansion. UNIDO in partnership with BCI Bank, and the Energy Fund (FUNAE) with funding from the Global Environment Facility (GEF) launched a credit line allowing small and medium-sized enterprises to access funds for the implementation of renewable energy projects including biogas for productive uses.

Impact and Challenges

UNIDO's initiatives have yielded tangible results in promoting biogas adoption and contributing to sustainable development outcomes in Mozambique. By harnessing local resources and fostering partnerships, UNIDO has helped to improve energy access, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, create employment opportunities, and enhance the resilience of rural communities.

However, several challenges remain in scaling up biogas deployment in Mozambique, including limited awareness and technical expertise, inadequate infrastructure, financing constraints, and policy barriers. Addressing these challenges will require continued collaboration and commitment from stakeholders across government, civil society, academia, and the private sector.

Conclusion

UNIDO's efforts in promoting biogas technology in Mozambique exemplify its commitment to advancing sustainable industrial development and addressing the interlinked challenges of energy poverty, environmental degradation, and economic inequality. By leveraging its expertise, resources, and global network, UNIDO plays a crucial role in catalyzing positive change and unlocking the transformative potential of renewable energy for the benefit of present and future generations in Mozambique and beyond.