Biomass Unit
The Biomass Unit is one of the four research units established at the inception of the Centre in 1982, to carry out research and development in biomass and biofuels, biogas and related systems such as coal, saw-dust and improved wood stoves. Biomass, as the name implies, uses organic waste material of plant and animal origin to generate fuel; the unit is charged with research into the efficient utilisation of these materials and the systems that use them.
Most rural areas of the country use wood as a major source of energy — and it remains a major source in urban centres too. Deploying biomass technology for energy generation can therefore go a long way towards protecting forest reserves and stifling desert encroachment. Furthermore, most of the raw materials for generating biogas come from waste materials, so the use of biomass technology also helps reduce environmental pollution and create a cleaner environment.
Biomass Technologies
Biogas Plants and Gas Holders
The unit has developed and operates a range of biogas digesters and gas holders at the Centre’s demonstration area, converting organic waste into gas for cooking and electricity generation.
Dome-Type Biogas Plant, Danjawa
A fixed dome-type biogas pilot plant constructed at Danjawa village, demonstrating community-scale biogas production from locally available waste materials.
Thermoelectric Air-Blower Charcoal Stove
SERC has developed a charcoal stove that uses the thermoelectric (Peltier) effect to power an air blower for the combustion of coal or charcoal. This eliminates the need for manual air supply during cooking and makes the operation of the stove considerably more efficient.
Public Demonstration of Improved Stoves
The unit demonstrates its improved stoves to visitors, community groups and government representatives as part of the Centre’s public enlightenment mandate.
Fixed Dome, Portable and Stove Systems
Systems developed by the unit include the fixed dome biogas plant, a portable biogas digester, a double-hole saw-dust stove, a coal stove and community-based improved wood stoves.
Improved Wood Stoves for Danjawa
The unit has distributed improved wood stoves to the Danjawa community, reducing fuelwood consumption and the pressure that wood collection places on the surrounding environment.