The State of Biogas Energy Based on Production, Policies, and Environmental Impact in South African Farms

Agriculture is one of the key economic sectors contributing to Africa's GDP, necessitating a reliable electricity supply for farms to maintain competitiveness and growth. Renewable energy sources can support standalone micro-grids, with biogas technology offering unique advantages as it can integrate with farming operations and rural lifestyles. Currently, South Africa operates 300 bio-digesters, with 50 registered as commercial biogas plants each exceeding 100 kW in capacity, predominantly located in the Western Cape, Gauteng, Free State, and KwaZulu-Natal. Most biogas projects focus on agriculture, using animal waste as feedstock. The Southern African Biogas Industry Association (SABIA) estimates that biogas could reduce national greenhouse gas emissions by 2% and attract investments of 50 billion Rand. The International Energy Agency (IEA) projects that biogas could meet 4% of the country's energy demand by 2030. However, challenges for investors include high initial capital costs, absence of government incentives, and limited feedstock availability. This paper aims to explore the policy landscape surrounding biogas technology, its economic benefits, and environmental impacts in South Africa, highlighting potential enhancements to rural livelihoods, support for sustainable development goals, and greenhouse gas reductions. Through this paper, the authors hope to inform stakeholders and policymakers on potential positive impact the improvement of energy security and access in rural areas through optimized biogas utilization could hold in South Africa.