The Potential for Biomass Energy Derived from Agricultural Residues in Somalia

The aim of this study is to evaluate the potential for biomass energy derived from agricultural residues in Somalia. Somalia, a country characterized by agrarian practices and substantial agricultural output, holds promising potential for biomass energy generation from agricultural residues. This study explores the feasibility and capacity of utilizing crop residues, such as maize stalks, sorghum stalks, and other agricultural by-products, for energy production. Through field surveys, biomass characterisation, and feasibility assessments, the study evaluates the availability of agricultural residues and their energy conversion potential using technology like biomass. Factors such as resource availability and economic viability are considered to determine the practicality of scaling biomass energy initiatives in Somalia. The findings underscore the significant role that biomass energy can play in enhancing energy security, rural development, and environmental sustainability in the region. The annual volume of agricultural residues generated by crops in Somalia, measured in tons of dry material, was assessed using agricultural production data from the Food and Agriculture Organization Statistical Database of the United Nations (FAOSTAT) for the year 2021. The total yearly potential of agricultural residues was determined based on the residue-to-product ratio (RPR). The estimated total amount of agricultural residues in Somalia, including annual crop residues, is approximately 2.9 kilotons (kt). The primary crops contributing to this total are sorghum (68.33%), maize (20.18%), and dry beans (10.72%). Somalia possesses a significant amount of raw materials that can be used for energy production from agricultural residues. The estimated total energy potential of these residues for the 2021 production period is approximately 41.4 terajoules (TJ).