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Title
Bioethanol for Clean Cooking
Publisher
FAO
Author
Demekas, S.; Miller, C.M.; Pirelli, T.
Published in
October 2025
Abstract
This study provides insights on the potential of bioethanol for clean cooking in various African countries, highlighting key enabling factors and barriers, and areas for further research. It draws on literature reviews, policy analysis, case studies, and stakeholder consultations in Rwanda and Uganda. The findings aim to support governments and policymakers to evaluate the suitability and sustainability of bioethanol and other clean cooking options, and to set priorities in national climate agendas and action plans in line with the global roadmap for a just and inclusive energy transition.Over two billion people lack access to clean cooking, hindering food security and sustainable development. Each year, cooking with traditional fuels costs the world USD trillions in damage to the environment and local economies, and leads to 3.7 million premature deaths. Bioethanol offers a promising alternative in Africa: it can be produced from locally available biomass, generate new income streams to foster rural economic growth, and help reduce countries' dependencies on fuel imports, thereby strengthening energy security. However, domestic production and adoption of bioethanol for cooking is not universally feasible, and market development faces many challenges. This study uncovers favourable conditions for bioethanol development in Africa, including availability of local feedstock, existing infrastructure and distribution networks, and an enabling policy and regulatory environment. It also highlights common challenges, such as high upfront and recurring costs for companies that translate into limited affordability for end users, volatility of supply and price of fuel, and competition over resources for other agrifood system products.
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