Africa, with its wealth of natural resources and growing population, faces major energy challenges. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), around 600 million people in Sub-Saharan Africa do not have access to electricity, and nearly 900 million still rely on traditional biomass for cooking and heating. In this context, biomass energy appears to be a promising solution to ensure the continent’s energy security.

What is Biomass ?

Biomass refers to any organic material of plant or animal origin that can be used as a source of energy. This includes agricultural residues, forest waste, urban organic waste, and certain energy crops.

In Africa, biomass is already widely exploited, but often in an unsustainable manner. The integration of modern technologies and sustainable practices could make it a key renewable energy source for the continent.

Potential of Biomass in Africa

Africa has significant biomass potential. According to a World Bank report, the continent could produce up to 1.3 billion tonnes of biomass per year. This represents an opportunity not only to meet growing energy needs but also to stimulate economic development and create jobs.

• Available resources : Agricultural residues such as maize stalks, palm nut shells, and sugar cane waste are abundant. For example, maize production in South Africa generates about 10 million tonnes of residues annually, which could be converted into energy.
• Conversion technologies : Modern biomass conversion technologies such as gasification, anaerobic digestion, and advanced combustion can transform this waste into electricity, heat, or biofuels. For example, a project in Tanzania demonstrates that maize residue gasification can produce electricity at a competitive cost.
• Environmental impact : Sustainable use of biomass can also contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. By replacing fossil fuels with biomass, Africa can reduce its carbon footprint while meeting its energy needs.

Biomass and Energy Security

Energy security is a crucial issue for Africa’s economic and social development. Biomass energy can play a key role in several areas.

• Access to energy : By developing small-scale biomass projects, rural communities can access a reliable energy source. Initiatives in Ethiopia allow biogas systems to be installed in households, providing a clean and sustainable alternative to charcoal.
• Diversification of energy sources : Biomass can complement other renewable energy sources such as solar and wind energy. By integrating biomass into the energy mix, African countries can reduce their dependence on fossil fuels and improve their resilience to energy price fluctuations.
• Job creation : Developing the biomass industry can generate jobs in the collection, transformation, and distribution of energy. According to a study by the International Labour Organization (ILO), the renewable energy sector could create up to 24 million jobs worldwide by 2030, with a significant share in Africa.

Biomass Usage in Africa

A large portion of the African population relies on biomass (plants, wood, animal manure, municipal waste) to meet their domestic energy needs. In two-thirds of African countries, biomass accounts for nearly 50 % of total energy consumption.

In Sub-Saharan Africa, almost 80 % of the population uses agricultural residues, animal waste, firewood, and charcoal to obtain energy for cooking and other domestic activities. In North and Southern Africa, 0.22 % and 8.40 % of the population respectively consume biomass energy.

Challenges to Overcome

Despite its potential, biomass energy in Africa faces several challenges.

• Insufficient infrastructure : Many regions lack adequate infrastructure for waste collection and transformation into energy. Investments in infrastructure are necessary to develop this sector.
• Awareness and training : It is essential to raise community awareness of the benefits of biomass energy and to train local actors in conversion technologies. Training programs can help develop the skills needed to manage biomass projects.
• Regulation and policy : Governments need to implement policies favorable to biomass energy, including financial incentives and clear regulations. This can encourage private investment and stimulate sector development.

Examples of Successful Projects

Several projects in Africa illustrate the potential of biomass.

• Biogas project in Ethiopia : This project allows biogas systems to be installed in more than 50,000 households, providing a clean energy source and reducing dependence on charcoal.
• Biomass power plant in Mombasa, Kenya : This plant uses sugar cane waste to produce electricity, contributing to local energy supply while valorizing agricultural waste.
• Waste valorization program in South Africa : This program transforms organic waste into biogas, providing a renewable energy source while reducing waste sent to landfills.

Biomass energy represents a unique opportunity for Africa to ensure its energy security while promoting sustainable development. By exploiting available resources, investing in modern technologies, and implementing favorable policies, the continent can turn its energy challenges into opportunities. With collective commitment, Africa can not only improve energy access for its populations but also contribute to the fight against climate change and the creation of sustainable jobs.