EthoEnergies
EthoEnergies is transforming the landscape of clean cooking in Sub-Saharan Africa by introducing digital ethanol stoves and locally produced ethanol fuel (biofuel) from agricultural waste, offering a sustainable, affordable, and health-conscious alternative to traditional biomass fuels.
Problem
Household air pollution from burning biomass fuels like wood, charcoal, and crop residues kills over 4 million people annually worldwide. In Africa, it accounts for 700,000 deaths per year, representing about 60% of all air pollution-related deaths on the continent. In Uganda, approximately 96% of the population relies on these fuels for cooking, leading to severe deforestation with 49,200 hectares of tree cover lost in 2021 alone, equivalent to around 25.1 million metric tons of CO₂ emissions. Women and children are disproportionately affected, facing health risks and exposure to assault while collecting firewood. Additionally, nearly 40% of fruits and vegetables in Sub-Saharan Africa go to waste, contributing to economic loss and environmental degradation.
Solution
EthoEnergies introduces the EthoStove - a digital ethanol stove powered by ethanol fuel produced from locally sourced agricultural waste. By converting agricultural waste into ethanol, we address both the clean cooking needs and reduce food waste. Our stoves will offer quick ignition, adjustable heat settings, affordability, efficiency, and durability. Biofuel burns cleanly with a blue flame, significantly reducing harmful emissions and improving indoor air quality. By utilizing ethanol, a renewable energy source, we alleviate the pressure on Uganda's forests and contribute to climate change mitigation.
Market Opportunity
Sub-Saharan Africa has nearly 900 million people cooking with biomass fuels, with over 890 million lacking access to modern, clean cooking solutions. Uganda's heavy reliance on wood fuels presents a significant market opportunity for alternative fuels. Moreover, the abundance of agricultural waste provides a sustainable feedstock for biofuel production. By tapping into this untapped resource, EthoEnergies positions itself to meet a critical need in a market with immense growth potential.
Business Model
EthoEnergies operates on a sustainable and inclusive business model. We produce ethanol fuel from agricultural waste, reducing food loss and environmental impact. Our EthoStoves are to be sold directly and through a hire-purchase model, allowing low-income households to pay in installments. Ethanol fuel is to be distributed via converted charcoal and firewood selling centers, now serving as biofuel refilling stations, starting at as low as 1,000 Ugandan shillings per liter. This model not only makes clean cooking accessible but also preserves jobs in local communities.
Funding Request
We are seeking funds to bring this project to life, scale ethanol production facilities, expand stove manufacturing, and establish a robust distribution network of biofuel refilling stations across Uganda. Funds will also support marketing and educational campaigns to raise awareness about the benefits of clean cooking and to drive adoption of our affordable solutions.
Future Prospects
EthoEnergies envisions a future where clean energy is a cornerstone of sustainable energy in Africa. Plans include expanding into ethanol-powered generators, and agricultural machinery, further reducing reliance on fossil fuels. We aim to partner with governments, NGOs, and international organizations to replicate our model across Sub-Saharan Africa, transforming agricultural waste into energy and fostering economic growth.
Team
Led by CEO Jonathan Ssemakula, our team comprises experienced engineers, agronomists, and energy experts dedicated to sustainable development. Our collective expertise in ethanol production, stove manufacturing, and market distribution positions EthoEnergies to lead the clean cooking revolution in Africa.