Solar, Biomass and Hybrid Dryers - BioEnergy Discussion Lists

PrefaceIt is increasingly becoming evident that current pattern of rising conventional energyconsumption cannot be sustained in the future due to two reasons: the environmentalconsequences of heavy dependence on fossil fuels, particularly climate change, and thedepletion of fossil fuels. Therefore, at present, a near consensus appears to be emerging thatrenewable energy technologies need to be promoted if global energy supplies are to beplaced on an environmentally sustainable path.Despite the efforts of various government institutions, universities, NGOs and internationaldevelopment organizations, renewable energy technologies are yet to make a substantialcontribution towards betterment of the quality of life in the developing countries. To find awider acceptance, it is very important to make sure that renewable energy solutions areaccessible, affordable and appropriate. Research and development institutes in developingcountries have a vital role to play in the development, local adaptation and promotion ofrenewable energy technologies. These institutes have much to gain through regionalnetworking with similar institutes in other countries by sharing experience and carrying outjoint coordinated research.In this background, the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida)sponsored a regional programme entitled “Renewable Energy Technologies in Asia: ARegional Research and Dissemination Programme (RETs in Asia)”. The programme,executed during 1997-2004, was coordinated by the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) andinvolved thirteen National Research Institutes (NRIs) from six Asian countries: Bangladesh,Cambodia, Lao PDR, Nepal, Philippines and Vietnam. Three technologies/applicationswere identified for research, promotion and dissemination: solar photovoltaics, renewableenergy based drying and biomass briquetting/briquette-fired stoves.Six booklets have been prepared to disseminate the findings of the RETs in Asia programme.This document presents technical information on the different renewable energy baseddrying systems developed at AIT and in the three participating countries: Cambodia, Nepaland Philippines. The information is expected to be useful to those who are involved indrying related development projects in the Asian region, the business community as well asNGOs/research institutes.We are grateful to the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida) forproviding financial assistance for all the activities carried out within the programme. We arealso thankful to Dr. Gity Behravan of Sida for her continuous support and guidance over theimplementation period.June 2005Prof. S. KumarRETs in Asia Coordinatoriv