The implementation of the National Program of Biodigesters of Burkina Faso ( PNB-BF), during its first phase 2009-2013, saw, the construction of 4,013 biodigesters , though a target of constructing 6,000 had been set. PNB-BF was able to realise 67 % of the goal set out for it.
The second phase, 2014-2017,foresees the construction of 18,200 biodigesters. By December 31 2014 only, 1,446 digesters had been built. This low level of attainment, 47 %, can be attributed to the relatively high costs of the production. The total production as of December 31st, 2014 stood at 5,459 installations. For the year 2015, the target of construction has been set for 2,500 biodigesters .
The program’s goal is to stimulate the emergence and the development of a trade sector for biodigesters in Burkina Faso. The creation of a critical mass of local capacities is thus a pivotal point in the interventions of the program by the private sector and civil society.
The strategy for development centres on building of the technical and entrepreneurial capacities of the respective players. Since the inception of the programme and thanks to the association of various vocational schools, PNB-PF has trained approximately 400 masons. Several of these masons have gone to create Biodigesters Construction Enterprises (BCEs). Currently, there are about 15 cooperatives that are organised by masons. There are several organizations are also committed to the promotion of the use of bioslurry for fertiliser and to aid in the improvement of the productivity of agricultural practices such as fish farming and pig breeding.
The main challenge the programme is facing is inextensively disseminated and distribution of biogas technology to rural and peri-urban households. This is attribute to the initial high financial costs. Fortunately, the government of Burkina Faso brings a substantial contribution to the construction biodigester thanks to a subsidy that covers 30 % of the average cost of a 6 cubic metre digester.
Extensive research and development has been carried out that will see a much more functional model of digester being developed that will be cheaper by 15 per cent. The model will have a lifespan of 25 years and will be launch into the market from February 2015.