​​54 Percent Of Nepal’s Domestic Biogas Plants Shut Down Due To Poor Maintenance And Skilled Manpower Shortage

Kathmandu: Of the domestic biogas plants installed in Nepal, 54 percent are currently unused or shut down. This has been revealed by a survey conducted by researchers from Kathmandu University in 2,559 households across 10 districts.

The research report has been published in the international scientific journal Nature. According to the study, the primary reason for the shutdown of biogas plants is equipment failure. In particular, many plants have stopped operating due to the breakdown of mixers used to combine feedstock and faults in the main gas pipe valve.

The study found that 83 percent of the shut-down plants had mixer failures. Similarly, 82 percent had faulty main valves.

Beyond technical problems, the research notes a decline in biogas use due to reduced animal husbandry, youth migration for foreign employment, and the lack of skilled technicians and spare parts required for maintenance.

As households shift from biogas to liquefied petroleum (LP) gas, the country is facing a significant financial burden. The study estimates that Nepali households are spending an additional Rs 700 million annually on LP gas due to the shutdown of biogas plants.

This shift is also expected to increase carbon dioxide emissions by 660,000 tons per year. The researchers warn that this will undermine Nepal’s target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2045.

In the absence of biogas, increased reliance on firewood collection has been observed. This has led to time loss and health impacts, particularly affecting women and children. By 2023, around 450,000 biogas plants had been installed across Nepal. However, due to poor sustainability, much of the investment has failed to deliver long-term benefits.

Experts involved in the study stress that government policy should not focus only on installing new biogas plants. They recommend prioritizing maintenance, long-term operation, and sustainability. The study concludes that local governments should assess household needs and capacity, establish maintenance centers, and provide performance-based subsidies.

 

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