Assessment of Selected Biomass Energy Potential in Afghanistan

Abstract

Biomass plays a major role in satisfying the energy needs of Afghanistan, especially in the residential sector where fuel demand is primarily met in the form of fuelwood, charcoal, crop residues and animal manure. Till now, enough work has not been undertaken to assess the biomass energy potential in the country to support renewable energy development plans and more sustainable use of biomass resources. This paper is limited to the assessment of biomass energy potential from the following resources: (A) forest fuelwood and charcoal, (B) crop residues (wheat, rice, barley and maize residues) and (C) cattle manure for the years 2012-13 and 2013-14. The study assesses a total biomass energy potential of 97,310 TJ during the period 2012-13 and 99,012 TJ during the period 2013-14. It is observed that only about 52% of the estimated biomass energy potential is being exploited. The estimated energy potential of the selected biomass could contribute up to 69% in the primary energy consumption of Afghanistan (140,966 TJ) during the year 2012-13.