The Forward7 Initiative of Saudi Arabia, formerly known as the Kingdom’s Clean Fuel Solutions for Cooking, has partnered with Sistema.bio, a global leader in innovative biogas technology, to introduce subsidized biodigesters for smallholders in Nepal and Indonesia. The project aims to install 800 biogas units across these nations and will facilitate Sistema.bio’s future services in collaboration with local partners PT. Biru Karbon Nusantara (BKN) and the Nepal Biogas Promotion Association. Set to conclude in January 2025, this initiative is a significant step towards improving clean energy access for small dairy farmers.
According to the press release, supported by the Middle East Green Initiative, Forward7 seeks to enhance the lives of rural communities by providing clean cooking solutions that promote health, empower women, support marginalized groups, and reduce CO2 emissions linked to traditional cooking methods like wood and coal. Additionally, the project aims to stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and improve rural infrastructure. Through increased international cooperation, it addresses climate change challenges while contributing to a sustainable future. Forward7 is dedicated to delivering clean cooking solutions to 750 million people, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7.
The partnership will implement a comprehensive project management strategy that includes identifying potential risks related to import issues, installation quality, user adaptation, and product affordability. It will also tackle the high non-functionality rates of current biogas systems through targeted marketing and awareness campaigns. Setting realistic goals informed by Sistema.bio’s extensive experience and market research, the initiative will focus resources on essential tasks such as farmer communication, digester installation, and maintenance training, drawing from 14 years of global experience and established local networks. Regular bi-weekly updates, midterm evaluations, and dedicated expert support will ensure effective project management, while advanced data collection tools like Salesforce and TaroWorks will track progress and ensure successful completion by January 2025, the press release further added.
The initiative will see the installation of biogas plants ranging from 2 to 40 cubic meters in strategic areas of Indonesia and Nepal. These plants will enable farmers to efficiently convert organic waste into clean energy, reducing reliance on traditional cooking fuels. Additionally, the project promotes effective cattle waste management and produces biofertilizer as a by-product, offering an organic alternative to chemical fertilizers that can help farmers reduce costs and enhance soil quality.
