EVALUATING ADOPTION AND OPERATION OF AN ON-CAMPUS BIOGAS ENERGY SYSTEM AT DAVID UMAHI FEDERAL UNIVERSITY OF HEALTH SCIENCES, UBURU, NIGERIA

Abstract

The growing global focus on sustainable energy has renewed interest in biogas, especially in developing regions facing energy poverty and weak organic waste management. This study examines the feasibility, awareness, and adoption potential of campus-based biogas systems among food vendors, cleaners, and security staff at David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences, Uburu, and its host community. A mixed-method design combined questionnaire, focus group discussions, and statistical analysis to generate primary data from forty-seven respondents. Findings show that although many participants (70.2%) were aware of biogas technology, only 48.9% demonstrated adequate understanding of its operation. However, a large majority (97.9%) expressed willingness to adopt biogas, provided affordability, safety, and reliability are assured. Key barriers include safety concerns (29.8%), perceived maintenance difficulty (23.4%), and high initial costs (19.1%). Chi-square tests revealed significant relationships between awareness, gender, location, and willingness to participate in co-ownership arrangements (p < 0.05). Overall, the study indicates that biogas is a viable and sustainable energy option for the university setting. It recommends targeted capacity building, technical support mechanisms, and pilot-scale installations to improve acceptance, strengthen user confidence, and promote long-term adoption of campus-based biogas technology. These actions will enhance environmental stewardship and strengthen local energy resilience significantly.