Biomass Briquettes for Sustainable Households and Climate Resilience in Nigeria

This study explores biomass briquette production in energy planning for sustainable household utilization and climate resilience in Bauchi State, Nigeria. Adopting a mixed-methods research design, the study combines quantitative and qualitative tools, including structured household surveys (n=300), semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders (n=20), focus group discussions, and laboratory tests on briquette samples to evaluate the feasibility and potential impact of biomass briquettes as an alternative energy source. The research assessed key factors, including biomass feedstock availability, community acceptance, and the technical, economic, and environmental viability of briquette production. Stakeholder mapping identified five categories: end-users, producers, feedstock suppliers, policymakers, and intermediaries, and a multi-stage sampling method ensured comprehensive representation. Findings reveal that biomass resources are widely available across the study areas, with sawdust, rice husk, and groundnut shells being the primary feedstocks. Laboratory tests demonstrated that sawdust-based briquettes offered the highest calorific value and combustion efficiency, outperforming traditional fuels such as firewood. The potential for biomass briquette production to reduce energy costs was widely recognized, as respondents identified several barriers to adoption, including lack of awareness, high initial costs, and inadequate infrastructure for production. The awareness of biomass briquettes was moderately high, while adoption readiness varied, with 75% of respondents indicating a willingness to adopt if the fuel was affordable. This research emphasizes the need for targeted policy interventions and public education campaigns to address awareness gaps and build capacity for briquette production. By integrating biomass briquette production into Nigeria's energy planning, this enhances climate resilience and promotes sustainable energy transitions in urban and rural households. The results provide actionable insights for policymakers, energy planners, and environmental advocates seeking to incorporate alternative energy solutions into Nigeria’s broader energy strategy.