Summary:
Nepal once saw a major push for domestic biogas systems, which convert livestock and human waste into methane gas used for cooking and lighting. This technology helped many rural households reduce dependence on firewood and petroleum fuels, easing environmental pressure and saving money.

• History & Impact: Between 1992 and 2011, about 260,000 biogas digesters were installed across Nepal through a government partnership with the Netherlands. These systems significantly reduced firewood use, helping conserve forests and reduce household expenses.

• Current Challenges: Despite early success, the biogas movement is now stalling. Many households can no longer maintain biogas systems due to migration (people moving to cities or abroad), fewer cattle being raised, and high maintenance needs. About 50-55% of installed digesters are now non-functional.

• Energy Shift: As biogas use declines, reliance on imported liquified petroleum gas (LPG) has increased, raising energy security concerns due to Nepal’s dependence on India for fuel imports. Around 40% of households now use LPG cylinders.

• Technical & Social Issues:

• Biogas systems need proper upkeep; chemicals or sick cattle waste can disrupt bacteria inside digesters, lowering gas production.

• Hydrogen sulfide in biogas causes corrosion of zinc roofs common in rural homes, adding repair costs.

• Elderly people, who often remain in rural areas, struggle to manage cattle and maintain the systems.

• Potential & Solutions: Nepal has the potential for around 2 million biogas plants but has only installed about 450,000. Biogas could produce energy equivalent to 110 million LPG cylinders annually. To revive the movement, experts suggest:

• Promoting mixed renewable energy solutions including solar and wind alongside biogas.

• Offering better subsidies and support programs.

• Innovating smaller, portable biogas digesters suitable for families with fewer cattle.

• Educating users on maintenance to keep systems functional.

• Grassroots Efforts: Projects like those by Wildlife Conservation Nepal focus on making biogas affordable and training locals to maintain digesters, especially in areas where cattle numbers are dropping.

Bottom Line

Nepal’s biogas revolution improved rural energy access and environmental health but now faces decline due to demographic shifts and maintenance challenges. Reviving it will require innovation, government support, and integration with other renewable energy options to ensure energy security and sustainability.

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