Energy in Swaziland: Options for increased self-reliance at individual and national level

Abstract

Swaziland has many energy resources including biomass, coal, hydro and solar. These resources, in particular biomass, supply a major proportion of energy consumption, but all petroleum products and most coal and electricity are imported from or via South Africa. Swaziland could increase self-reliance, at a financial cost, by substituting local coal for imports, and by generating more electric power from biomass, coal or hydro sources. Ethanol for 20% petrol blending should soon be produced from molasses. Deforestation is evident in the country and suggests that fuelwood demand exceeds the sustainable supply from accessible land: this is an issue in both national and individual self-reliance. Supply and demand could be matched by using wood more efficiently; increasing the supply; and substituting other energy sources. Stoves and afforestation programmes can succeed only if they meet the perceived needs of individual consumers, and require proper market research and marketing. Fuel substitution shows limited promise, but hydro- and photovoltaic systems might assist rural development.