A biomass energy flow chart for Kenya

Abstract

Terrestrial (above ground) biomass production and its utilization in Kenya was analyzed for the 1980s. Total biomass energy production was estimated at 2574 × 106 GJ per year, most of which (86.7%) is produced on land classified as agricultural.

Of the total production, agriculture and forestry operations resulted in the harvesting of 1138 × 106 GJ (44.2% of total production), half of which (602 × 106 GJ) was harvested for use as fuel. Only 80 × 1006 GJ was harvested for food and 63 × 106 GJ for industrial (agricultural and forestry) plus other miscellaneous purposes.

About 85% of Kenya's energy is from biomass, with a per capita consumption of 18.6 GJ (0.44 toe, tonne oil equivalent) compared to less than 0.1 toe of commercial energy.

Use of the biomass resource was found to be extensive involving bulk harvesting but with low utilization efficiencies; as a result the overall losses were quite high. Only 534 × 106 GJ (46.9% of harvested biomass) was “useful energy”. 480 × 106 GJ was left unused, as residues and dung, all which was either burnt or left to decompose in the fields. 124 × 106 GJ was lost during charcoal manufacture.

Intensified use of the harvested biomass at higher efficiencies in order to minimize wastes would decrease the stress on the biomass resource base.