South Africa's Sugarcane Energy Potential

Key Figures & Findings: South Africa, a leading sugarcane producer with an annual yield of 2.2 million tonnes of refined sugar, discards about 90% of its sugarcane trash—equivalent to 2.7 million tonnes annually. This waste, primarily burned, contributes significantly to environmental degradation, releasing 725 tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually. Research reveals that transforming this waste into bioenergy could generate 180MW of electricity each season, powering over 100,000 homes. Small-scale farmers, who make up 11% of the country's sugarcane producers, could greatly benefit from this green transition by reducing waste, enhancing profitability, and contributing to sustainable energy generation.

Statistics & Insights:
Burning sugarcane trash releases emissions equivalent to burning 368 tonnes of coal annually. With 50% recovery efficiency, the energy from sugarcane trash could ease South Africa's energy crisis while empowering over 20,000 small-scale farmers. Current efforts, like the Rural Bioenergy Programme, aim to integrate farmers into this value chain.

Future Implications:
Adopting bioenergy requires targeted policies, including financial incentives for green harvesting and infrastructure to connect farmers to renewable energy markets. By 2030, this effort could enhance rural incomes, mitigate emissions, and contribute to South Africa’s renewable energy transition.

Source: The Conversation