Abstract

Cameroon is blessed with a vast potential of energy resources. However, their level of valorization is deplorable causing acute energy challenges. Consequently, most Cameroonians, mainly rural dwellers are dependent on traditional biomass and petroleum products for their basic energy needs despite their associated adverse health and the environmental impacts. Thus, there is a need for alternative, affordable and reliable energy sources to meet this energy gap. This study, therefore, reviews and assesses the prospects and sustainability of biogas production in Cameroon. To achieve this, a brief overview of the energy scenarios in Cameroon, the fundamentals of biogas production, and an assessment of the biogas resource potential of the country is carried out. Crop residues were found to be the most valuable biogas substrates in the country with an annual production capacity of 415.57 x 10⁶ m³ compared to 10.52 x 10⁶ m³ capacity from animal manure. This study also shows a promising future for biogas production in Cameroon given its vast and omnipresent agricultural feedstocks. However, the proliferation of this technology in the country is hindered by the lack of appropriate institutions, policies, regulations, incentives, political will and engagements, technicians and appropriate funding mechanisms. The promotion of biogas production in Cameroon is currently done by local and international NGOs with limited state engagements.

Keywords: Anaerobic digestion, biodigester, biogas, energy access, feedstock, waste streams.

Graphical Abstract