Energy Evaluation and Comparative Analysis of Eco-designed Charcoal Stove and Kerosene Stove

Abstract

Energy sources such as; fuel wood, charcoal, kerosene and others play vital role in meeting local energy demand in many Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) countries.Their usage is closely linked with economic development, poverty reduction and the provision of vital services. Until recently, kerosene was popularly used as domestic fuel which is greatly due to its availability, low cost, ease of handling and relatively safe but these are not the same anymore due to high cost of procurement and scarcity. Hence, this study of energy evaluation and comparative analysis of improved charcoal stove and kerosene stove aims to compare their energy efficiency and environmental impact. The charcoal stove casing was fabricated from 5 kg old gas cylinder that was condemned for leakage. Red clay and cement were carefully sieved and mixed with water to form the mold. An already fabricated grate was placed at the middle of the cylinder and the concrete was fed between the space. Three cooking tests; Water Boiling Test (WBT), Controlled Cooking Test (CCT) and Frying Test (FT) were conducted with the charcoal stove and the results obtained were compared with the results obtained from an existing kerosene stove. The three experiments revealed that the eco-friendly charcoal stove is better in fuel consumption, heat generation, duration of cooking and cost of procurement. In conclusion, the developed charcoal stove will suitably replace the kerosene stove for low-income earner and rural dweller.