Utilization pattern of biomass energy and socioeconomic dimensions associated with Yelandur, Karnataka, India

H P Komala,Attimogge Girirajanna Devi Prasad

doi:10.1007/s40095-014-0095-3

H P Komala, Attimogge Girirajanna Devi Prasad

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1007/s40095-014-0095-3

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Abstract

Energy is considered as a key factor which determines the economic development in the entire sector of any region. Biomass is one of the primary energy sources in rural areas. The study was carried out to examine the utilization pattern of biomass energy and socioeconomic dimensions associated with rural areas of Yelandur, Karnataka, India. Field studies in these villages covering 645 households were made to collect the data and assess the socioeconomic conditions that govern the biomass utilization pattern for meeting energy requirements. Firewood is the primary energy source (94.78 %) for cooking and heating among these rural folk. Most of them are illiterates (60 %) with 28.96 % of them having a meagre income. Traditional biomass stoves are used predominantly. The study shows that there is a positive correlation (R 2 = 0.98) between the households size and volume of firewood consumption. The study has revealed that the firewood fuels are the dominant source of energy for cooking and heating purposes.

Highlights

One essential component of rapid economic and social development is energy
The study was carried out to examine the utilization pattern of biomass energy and socioeconomic dimensions associated with rural areas of Yelandur, Karnataka, India
The study has revealed that the firewood fuels are the dominant source of energy for cooking and heating purposes

Summary

Introduction

One essential component of rapid economic and social development is energy. Biomass resources include wood and wood wastes, agricultural crops and their residues, municipal solid waste, animal waste, waste from food processing, aquatic plants and algae [3]. It is mainly used as fuel sources for cooking and heating purposes in the rural households. The biomass fuels in its various forms have been recognized as a useful and cost-effective alternative source of energy. It has advantages over fossil fuels due to various environmental concerns. These fuels do not contribute to the carbon dioxide levels of atmosphere and prevent aggravation in global warming [4]

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