Potential of bio-energy production in Ethiopia based on available biomass residues

Biomass is one of the most important and emerging sources of energy. The objective of this study was, therefore, to explore the potential of energy production from biomass resources available in Ethiopia. The study involved the estimation of bio-energy potential from crop residues, forest, livestock waste, and municipal solid waste (MSW) in the major towns of the country. The paper also presents policy recommendations for sustainable bio-energy development. The crop, forest, and livestock population data were extracted from the Food and Agriculture Organization statistics database (FAOSTAT) and the country's national and regional reports. The results revealed that Ethiopia has a substantial amount of biomass residues, which are not currently being utilized and collected, that can be used without negatively affecting the socio-economic as well as environmental requirements and without compromising food security. The total bio-energy availability of the country was estimated to be 750 PJ per year (46.5% forest residue, 34% crops residue, 18.8% livestock waste, and 0.05% MSW). The study concludes that an integrated bio-energy database, research development, and identification of feasible bio-energy feedstock value chains are needed to fully realize the potential availability of biomass energy. It also recommends that assessment of the bio-energy value chain should be conducted along its life cycle.