Pellet stoves offer a practical clean cooking alternative in Zambia

Across Zambia, many households still rely on charcoal and firewood for daily cooking. These fuels drive deforestation, increase household costs, and expose families to harmful smoke. While alternatives like liquid petroleum gas and electricity exist, they remain out of reach for many due to cost and unreliable supply. Ener-G-Africa (EGA), an energy company based in South African and Malawi, is introducing a practical alternative through pellet gasifier stoves.

Pellet stoves use biomass pellets made from agricultural waste such as maize stalks, sawdust, and elephant grass. These pellets are converted into a clean-burning gas, supported by a small fan that regulates airflow and improves combustion. The result is a low-smoke, high-efficiency cooking solution. These stoves achieve Tier 4 to Tier 5 ratings under WHO and ISO standards, meaning they produce minimal emissions and meet safe indoor air quality levels.

EGA’s Zambia Clean Cooking Project, supported by the Modern Cooking Facility for Africa (MCFA), has shown strong results in Lusaka. In pilot trials, 97% of households preferred pellet stoves over charcoal and electric options. Families reported faster cooking, cleaner kitchens, and lower fuel costs. Switching from charcoal to pellets reduced annual fuel expenses by about 2730 ZMW (around R2080). With a full stove kit, including a solar panel and power bank, households can recover the cost in about 21 weeks.

Beyond savings, the model supports local economies. Pellets are produced from agricultural waste, reducing environmental damage and creating new income streams. The approach also avoids disrupting existing fuel vendors by offering a cleaner product they can sell.

The impact on women is significant. Women carry most of the cooking responsibilities, and cleaner stoves reduce health risks and time spent managing fuel. In Zambia’s trials, about 60% of participants were women, and EGA aims for at least 50% female employment in its operations. This creates more opportunities for income and economic participation.

EGA is now scaling the initiative with plans for retail outlets, sales agents, and pellet production facilities. By focusing on local production and practical technology, pellet stoves offer a scalable solution to Zambia’s clean cooking challenge.