Haiti Household Energy Strategy
Summary — This report outlines a household energy strategy for Haiti, focusing on reducing deforestation caused by woodfuel consumption, particularly charcoal. It assesses the energy sector, identifies key issues, and proposes interventions to promote alternative fuels and sustainable charcoal production.
Key Findings
- Woodfuel consumption, especially urban charcoal, is a major contributor to deforestation.
- There is a lack of recent inventory of forest or biomass resources.
- Public management of forest resources has weakened.
- Gas prices are high due to current supply and distribution arrangements.
- Household energy sector is in complete economic disequilibrium.
Full Description
The Haiti Household Energy Strategy report, produced by the Joint UNDP/World Bank Energy Sector Management Assistance Programme (ESMAP) in December 1991, addresses the severe environmental degradation in Haiti, primarily caused by woodfuel consumption, especially urban charcoal use. The report highlights the lack of recent forest inventories and comprehensive programs to combat deforestation. It emphasizes the need to reduce pressure on forest resources by promoting charcoal substitutes like gas and improving charcoal conservation efforts. The strategy proposes interventions on woodfuel supply, demand-side management, and strengthening the gas market, aiming to restore financial and economic equilibrium in the energy sector and contribute to natural resource management.