Abstract
Cameroon is blessed with a vast potential of energy resources. However, their level of valorization is deplorable causing acute energy challenges. Consequently, most Cameroonians, mainly rural dwellers are dependent on traditional biomass and petroleum products for their basic energy needs despite their associated adverse health and the environmental impacts. Thus, there is a need for alternative, affordable and reliable energy sources to meet this energy gap. This study, therefore, reviews and assesses the prospects and sustainability of biogas production in Cameroon. To achieve this, a brief overview of the energy scenarios in Cameroon, the fundamentals of biogas production, and an assessment of the biogas resource potential of the country is carried out. Crop residues were found to be the most valuable biogas substrates in the country with an annual production capacity of 415.57 x 106 m3 compared to 10.52 x 106 m3 capacity from animal manure. This study also shows a promising future for biogas production in Cameroon given its vast and omnipresent agricultural feedstocks. However, the proliferation of this technology in the country is hindered by the lack of appropriate institutions, policies, regulations, incentives, political will and engagements, technicians and appropriate funding mechanisms. The promotion of biogas production in Cameroon is currently done by local and international NGOs with limited state engagements.
Keywords: Anaerobic digestion, biodigester, biogas, energy access, feedstock, waste streams.
Graphical Abstract
Related Books
Recent Developments in Artificial Intelligence and Communication Technologies
Emerging Technologies and Applications for a Smart and Sustainable World
Solar Thermal Systems: Thermal Analysis and its Application
Image Processing in Renewable Energy Resources: Opportunities and Challenges
Recent Advances in Renewable Energy
6G Wireless Communications and Mobile Networking
Thermal Cycles of Heat Recovery Power Plants
35
5
1
1