Assessment of Maize and Rice Residues for Rural Electrification in Ghana: A Case Study in Ejisu-Juaben District

Abstract

The study assesses the potential of maize and rice residues for rural electrification in Ghana using Ejisu-Juaben District as a case study. The focus of the thesis was based on agriculture residues pathways for rural electricity generation. More specifically, to assess crop residues potential for rural electrification in Ejisu Juaben District by gasification or combustion technology using the BEFS Rapid Appraisal tools and approach. Structured interview of farmers and local authorities and detailed study of the available literature and scientific reports on the production, collection, disposal and other uses of residues was carried out to collect additional data and information from some selected communities (Besease, Nobewam and Donaso) within the Ejisu Juaben District. A Bioenergy and Food Security Rapid Appraisal (BEFS RA) Assessment was carried out using collected data from questionnaires, FAOSTAT, World Development Indicators (WDI) and Data from National Statistical Agencies in Ghana such as Ghana Statistical Service, National Energy Statistics, Ghana Living Standard Survey and Fact and Figures from Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA). The total amount of residues (maize stover, maize husk, maize cob and rice husk) generated on the field was 13, 043 tonne per year. Out of this amount, 12, 565 tonne per year is available for bioenergy. Maize stover generates the largest quantity of residues, contributing about 88% by weight of the total available residues. The findings show that, combustion pathway is the most preferable choice since it recorded the least unit price of electricity, 1.36 USD per kWh as compared to gasification of 1.37 USD per kWh. The combustion pathway can create 14 potential plants, 74 potential jobs and 184 household electricity connections. In addition, maize stover and maize cob are the most feasible options for power generation at all plant capacities since they provided a positive NPV, thus 104,000 and 102,000 USD respectively. Therefore, combustion pathway is the most feasible option over gasification.