Adoption determinants of biogas and its impact on poverty in Bangladesh

Renewable energy resources are critical for reducing poverty and addressing the energy shortage. Renewable energy technologies have been slow to gain traction in Bangladesh. This study examines the factors that influence biogas adoption and the effects on income and poverty levels. A total of 400 respondents were surveyed to achieve the objectives. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics and a set of econometric models. According to the results, approximately one-third of the respondents used biogas technology. Respondents' perceptions of reduced cooking fuel costs and modern communication technologies such as internet connectivity and mobile phone use played a major role in their adoption decision. The likelihood of adoption is 11.9 per cent and 56.7 per cent higher for those who have access to the internet and mobile phone compared to their counterparts. Adopters of biogas have between 13 and 27 per cent higher per capita household income than non-adopters. Based on radius matching, the household poverty gap is approximately 16 per cent lower for biogas adopters than non-adopters. Modifying the extension approach through the use of modern communication techniques can help achieve widespread adoption. The availability of capital may play a vital role in adoption. There is a need to promote the role of biogas technology in anti-poverty programmes in Bangladesh. (C) 2021 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Automated summary

The study findings suggest that factors such as reduced cooking fuel costs, access to modern communication technologies like internet connectivity and mobile phones, play a significant role in the adoption of biogas technology in Bangladesh. Adopters of biogas have higher per capita household income and lower poverty levels compared to non-adopters. Improving the extension approach with modern communication techniques and promoting the role of biogas technology in anti-poverty programs are crucial for widespread adoption in Bangladesh.