Country: Uganda

Mandulis Energy - Bio-Energy for Agriculture + Rural Livelihoods.

About The Project

Mandulis Energy, in partnership with Verst Carbon, is leading a transformative bio-energy project aimed at improving rural livelihoods and enhancing agricultural sustainability across Uganda, Botswana, and South Africa. Beginning in November 2023, this ongoing project focuses on building bio-energy infrastructure to address energy poverty, enhance agricultural productivity, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The cornerstone of the project is the establishment of
gasification plants that convert biomass into biochar while simultaneously generating electricity. This dual-purpose approach ensures not only the reduction of carbon emissions but also the production of affordable, clean energy for rural households. The project is being developed under the Puro Standard, a globally recognized certification for carbon removal, and spans eight sites: six across Uganda, and one each in Botswana and South Africa.

The Problem

Energy access and sustainable agricultural practices remain critical challenges in many rural areas of Sub-Saharan Africa. In these regions, households often rely on expensive and unreliable sources of energy, limiting their economic potential and exacerbating poverty. Traditional agricultural practices also contribute to land degradation and inefficient use of biomass, leading to environmental damage and increased greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Without access to clean, affordable energy and improved agricultural practices, these communities face ongoing environmental, economic, and social challenges. Furthermore, the lack of robust monitoring and reporting frameworks for bio-energy projects hampers efforts to ensure long-term sustainability and scalability.

The Solution

The Bio-Energy for Agriculture + Rural Livelihoods project offers an innovative solution by integrating bio-energy production with sustainable agricultural practices. The project involves the construction and operation of gasification plants that convert agricultural biomass, such as crop residues, into biochar and electricity. Biochar, a carbon-rich material, is used to improve soil health and sequester carbon, effectively removing GHGs from the atmosphere. The electricity generated is supplied to nearby communities, providing them with 50% cheaper and more reliable energy than conventional alternatives.

Verst Carbon’s role in the project includes conducting feasibility studies to identify optimal locations for the gasification plants, evaluating suitable technologies, and developing comprehensive Project Design Documents (PDDs). These PDDs provide the technical foundation for the project and ensure compliance with the Puro Standard for carbon credit issuance. To guarantee the project’s transparency and scalability, Verst Carbon has established a detailed Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) framework that tracks carbon reductions and the project’s overall performance.

Capacity building is another crucial aspect of the project. Verst Carbon is working closely with local staff at each site to provide training and technical support, ensuring the plants are operated and maintained effectively. This approach not only enhances local employment opportunities but also empowers communities to take ownership of the project, ensuring long-term sustainability.

Impact Made So Far

The Bio-Energy for Agriculture + Rural Livelihoods project is expected to generate significant environmental, social, and economic benefits across all eight sites. Each year, the project is projected to remove approximately 7,400 Carbon Removal Certificates (CORCs), equating to a significant reduction in GHG emissions. The biochar produced not only enhances soil fertility but also contributes to long-term carbon
sequestration, further amplifying the project’s environmental impact. By providing access to affordable electricity, the project is transforming the livelihoods of over 60,000 households. Access to cheaper, reliable energy improves living conditions, enables small businesses to thrive, and creates new opportunities for agricultural productivity and food security.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

This Project directly contributes to multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 2 (Zero Hunger). The capacity-building component of the project also fosters sustainable development by equipping local technicians and staff with the skills needed to manage and maintain the bio-energy plants. This investment in human capital promotes long-term economic growth and strengthens local communities’ ability to manage renewable energy infrastructure independently.
A carbon offset projects developer and carbon markets technology provider leveraging Africa’s vast carbon potential to unlock sustainable environmental, economic, and social benefits for Africa.

Get the latest from Verst

Social Links

Get the latest from Verst

Contact Details

 climateaction@verst.earth 

(+254)727-773342

(+254)711-757908

Get the latest from Verst

Quick Links

Terms & Conditions
Privacy Policy
Careers
FAQ’s

© 2024 Verst Carbon Limited. All Rights Reserved