Comparative Emission Analysis of Biomass Briquettes and Fossil Fuels for HouseholdEnergy in Bauchi, Nigeria: Implications for Clean Energy Transition
Abstract
The transition to cleaner household energy sources remains a critical challenge in Nigeria, where reliance on kerosene, firewood, and charcoal contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and indoor air pollution. This study presents a comparative assessment of the combustion performance and emission characteristics of biomass briquettes produced from locally available agricultural residues against conventional fossil-based fuels used in Bauchi State. A mixed-method approach was employed, combining socio-economic surveys with laboratory-based experimental analyses. Structured questionnaires were administered to 295 households across three senatorial districts, while laboratory tests measured carbon dioxide (CO₂), particulate matter (PM), and sulfur oxides (SOₓ) emissions from briquettes, firewood, and kerosene under controlled combustion. Results showed that biomass briquettes exhibited superior combustion efficiency with a higher calorific value and significantly lower CO₂ and SOₓ emissions compared to kerosene, while also reducing PM levels relative to firewood. Survey findings further revealed strong community willingness to adopt briquettes, though constrained by feedstock supply inconsistencies, infrastructural limitations, and policy gaps. The study concludes that biomass briquettes offer a viable low-carbon alternative to fossil fuels in household energy use, with potential to mitigate environmental degradation, reduce energy poverty, and contribute to Nigeria’s clean cooking and energy transition agenda. Policy interventions to strengthen feedstock supply chains, provide incentives for local production, and integrate briquettes into national energy strategies are recommended.
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