Planning for rural energy with a special reference to Kikuyu Division

Abstract

The importance of the traditional sources of energy, foremost among them woodfuel and the serious consequencies of Its shortage terms of supply and demand has made it necessary to assess the woodfuel situation in many parts of the world. Until recently, our National Development plans were not based on a conscious energy policy. The 1970's brought into focus a general realization that the era of cheap energy was over and that all economies had to adopt to high energy prices. This created the awareness and termination to explore the traditional energy policy. This study examines the nature and extent of the woodfuel crisis in Kikuyu Division of Kiambu District. The study has found that there are a number of factors that have contributed to woodfuel shortage in the Division. Critical among these factors are, rapid population growth, Deforestation, small land sizes and low energy conversion Efficiency methods.. Against this background, the study therefore has Recommended that appropriate measures must be undertaken to alleviate the shortage. The measures considered Practicable are aimed at energy conservation, energy Diversification and increasing energy supply by growing more trees. The study has concluded by proposing a short-term Strategy aimed at conservation and diversification and long term strategy directed towards increasing energy supply and population control •