Farm energy technology substitution in   developing countries

MCCOMBS , J .; AGR

Farm energy technology substitution in developing countries

MCCOMBS , J . | AGR

Modernization of the agricultural sector in developing countries has been threatened, due largely to the increasingly high cost of imported oil products to support irrigation projects, fertilizers, and farm machinery. Meanwhile the rural population is rapidly depleting traditional sources of energy. It has become essential to find ways to increase fuel, food, feed, and fertilizer. This paper focuses on technology substitution for on-farm production of energy. The structure of the paper is to: (i) establish classification of energy sources to clarify scientific and technology development priorities; (ii) establish selection criteria for energy technology substitution based on broad socioeconomic issues in agriculture and rural development; and (iii) establish a small farm analysis framework for examination of specific, selected examples of substitution energy technology. The paper maintains that policies to address energy needs of the small subsistence farmer differ from those promoted by the Green Revolution. Also, the farm system requires different forms of energy for the home and at different stages of the crop growth cycle. Conclusions about policy are drawn, and a priority ranking of substituting energy technology is presented.

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