Assessment of cow dung from Maddu-Gomba, Uganda for energy generation

This study assesses the feasibility of generating energy from cow dung in Maddu-Gomba, a rural Ugandan community characterised by intensive cattle farming. Utilising a locally constructed 45 m³ fixed-dome anaerobic digester, the study evaluates daily gas yields and corresponding electrical and thermal energy outputs over three months (June–August). Chemical analysis of the cow dung revealed favourable characteristics for anaerobic digestion, including high moisture content (75%), an optimal carbon-to-nitrogen ratio (20:1), neutral pH (6.54), and low sulfur and ash content. Results showed consistent gas production, with daily yields ranging from 248 to 327 m³, generating an average of 600–700 kWh of electricity and over 900 kWh of heat energy. These outputs significantly exceeded the estimated local electricity (33.78 kWh/day) and heat (17.49 kWh/day) demands, confirming the viability of biogas systems in meeting rural energy needs. The study highlights cow dung as a sustainable biomass resource that can address energy access challenges, improve waste management, and promote environmental sustainability. Its findings contribute valuable data for informing renewable energy policy and biogas adoption in cattle-farming communities across Uganda and similar regions.