The Rwandan government plans to restore 70% of non-functional biogas plants across the country within the next two to three years, according to the Ministry of Infrastructure. Of the over 10,600 biogas digesters installed, only 1,595 are currently operational, with 84% of the systems no longer working.
The initial project faced challenges due to underestimating costs, leading to incomplete installations and substandard quality. Companies faced losses as the actual expenses exceeded projections, resulting in technical issues and poor maintenance. Many stakeholders attributed the project's failure to its flawed structure.
Residents have shared their experiences with the failed systems. One resident, who invested a significant amount of money, saw his biogas plant fail within weeks of installation. Another, who has a functioning plant, highlighted the benefits of using biogas for energy and fertilizer.
Biogas is seen as a crucial solution for organic waste management, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and providing clean cooking fuel. Experts emphasize the need for public-private partnerships to ensure sustainable financing and scalability.
To address past failures, the government is introducing new prefabricated biodigesters, designed to be more durable, easier to maintain, and simpler to install. These improvements aim to make the technology more accessible, particularly for rural households, and reduce reliance on firewood and charcoal, contributing to Rwanda’s climate goals.
The initiative also includes plans to offer low-interest loans to encourage broader adoption of biogas technology.
