Kenya - Startup under 3 years old

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Our project, Nyeri Biogas Solutions, installs biogas systems in Nyeri County, Kenya, converting waste into clean, renewable energy. This initiative reduces reliance on firewood, improves health, lowers energy costs, and provides organic fertilizer.

01.01 Describe your startup in more detail

BIQUAY Green Solutions Limited is an emerging startup based in Nyeri County, Kenya, dedicated to promoting sustainable energy solutions. Our focus is on installing biogas systems in rural households, leveraging abundant cow dung. These systems convert organic waste into biogas, providing clean, renewable energy for cooking and lighting. We address environmental and health challenges associated with traditional cooking methods by introducing biogas technology. Our efforts contribute to local economic development and agricultural sustainability. We offer comprehensive support services, including maintenance, technical training, and educational programs. Our community-centric approach fosters ownership and sustainability. We promote gender equality by involving women in our projects, providing training and employment opportunities. Having installed 10 biogas systems this year, we aim to scale operations across Kenya and beyond, promoting clean energy access and sustainable development

01.02 What is the main problem you are trying to solve?

The main problem we are addressing is the reliance on traditional cooking methods, such as firewood and charcoal, in rural households in Nyeri County, Kenya. This reliance leads to deforestation, indoor air pollution, respiratory health issues, and economic inefficiencies. By introducing biogas technology, we aim to mitigate these challenges by providing a clean, renewable energy source that utilizes organic waste, improves indoor air quality, reduces deforestation, lowers energy costs, and enhances agricultural productivity through the production of organic fertilizer. Our solution promotes environmental sustainability, improves health outcomes, and contributes to economic development in the community.

01.03 Tell us the major benefits and/or advantages of using the product/service that your startup provides (at least 3).

Our biogas installations provide: Clean & Renewable Energy: Utilizing organic waste (e.g., cow dung, pig waste), they offer a sustainable energy source, reducing reliance on firewood. Cost Savings: By eliminating the need for firewood, households save on energy costs, promoting economic stability. Agricultural Benefits: Producing organic fertilizer from waste enhances soil fertility, improves crop yields, and fosters sustainable farming practices.

01.04 Please describe who exactly your startup’s product/service is aimed at serving. Who are the targeted beneficiaries?

Our biogas installations target a diverse range of customers, including households, schools, and institutions in Nyeri County, Kenya. By catering to these segments, we aim to address energy needs across various sectors while promoting sustainability and environmental stewardship. Our biogas installations target a diverse range of customers, including households, schools, and institutions in Nyeri County, Kenya. By catering to these segments, we aim to address energy needs across various sectors while promoting sustainability and environmental stewardship.

01.05 When was your company established?

2024-04-19

01.06 Are you already selling your product/service?

No

01.07 How many other owners are there within your startup?

1

01.08 Among the other owners, how many are female?

1

01.09 Please describe the profile of the other owners within your startup (skills, experience, etc.)

The other owner is a farmer who has part of the shareholding in the company.

01.10 If you have a website, a social media page (Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin…), or app, please provide the link(s) here:

01.11 Which industry best describes your project?

a) Energy (equipment, services, sustainable energy and fuel)

02.01.01 My startup contributes to the No poverty goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification for my startup

Our startup strongly contributes to the No Poverty goal (SDG 1) by providing affordable and sustainable energy solutions to rural households. By reducing energy costs through biogas installations, we alleviate financial burdens, empowering communities to allocate resources to other essential needs, thus fostering economic stability and poverty alleviation.

02.02.01 My startup contributes to the Zero hunger goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification for my startup

Our startup strongly contributes to the Zero Hunger goal (SDG 2) by promoting sustainable agriculture through biogas installations. By converting organic waste into biogas and organic fertilizer, we enhance soil fertility and crop yields, thus supporting food security and improved nutrition in rural communities.

02.03.01 My startup contributes to the Good health and well-being goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification for my startup

Our startup strongly contributes to the Good Health and Well-being goal (SDG 3) by reducing indoor air pollution and respiratory health issues associated with traditional cooking methods. By providing clean and renewable energy through biogas installations, we improve indoor air quality, thus promoting better health and well-being for households in rural communities.

02.04.01 My startup contributes to the Quality education goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification for my startup

Our startup strongly contributes to the Quality Education goal (SDG 4) by actively engaging in educational initiatives to promote renewable energy technologies. Even before our official registration on April 19th, 2024, we have conducted educational sessions for over 500 pupils, students, community groups, and farmers. Through these initiatives, we empower individuals with knowledge about sustainable energy solutions, fostering inclusive learning opportunities and promoting environmental awareness in our community.

02.05.01 My startup contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification for my startup

Our startup strongly contributes to the Gender Equality goal (SDG 5) by actively involving women in our initiatives and promoting their empowerment. Through our educational programs, we have reached out to women, who are often involved in cooking and household energy management. Additionally, one of our company shareholders is a woman, highlighting our commitment to gender inclusivity and equality in decision-making processes.

02.06.01 My startup contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

4

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification for my startup

While our startup's primary focus is on renewable energy solutions, such as biogas installations, we indirectly contribute to the Clean Water and Sanitation goal (SDG 6). By promoting sustainable practices and reducing reliance on traditional cooking methods, which can lead to water contamination through deforestation, we support the conservation of water resources and environmental sustainability.

02.07.01 My startup contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification for my startup

Our startup strongly contributes to the Affordable and Clean Energy goal (SDG 7) by providing accessible and sustainable energy solutions through biogas installations. By utilizing organic waste to produce biogas, we offer a clean, renewable, and affordable energy alternative to rural households. This not only reduces energy costs but also promotes environmental sustainability by mitigating reliance on fossil fuels and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

02.08.01 My startup contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

7 - Strongly Agree

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification for my startup

Our startup strongly contributes to the Decent Work and Economic Growth goal (SDG 8) by creating employment opportunities and fostering economic development in rural communities. Through our biogas installations, we provide jobs for local technicians, who are trained in installation, maintenance, and support services. Additionally, by promoting sustainable energy solutions, we stimulate economic growth and productivity, ultimately contributing to the overall well-being and prosperity of the community.

02.09.01 My startup contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

6

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification for my startup

Our startup contributes to Industry Innovation and Infrastructure (SDG 9) by introducing innovative biogas technology and building resilient infrastructure for sustainable energy solutions. By implementing biogas installations, we foster innovation in renewable energy technologies and promote inclusive access to modern energy services. Additionally, our initiatives require the development of infrastructure for biogas production and distribution, contributing to the overall resilience and sustainability of the local infrastructure.

02.10.01 My startup contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

6

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification for my startup

Our startup contributes to Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10) by providing access to clean energy solutions and economic opportunities in rural communities. By offering biogas installations, we bridge the energy gap and empower marginalized households, reducing disparities in energy access. Additionally, our employment opportunities and educational initiatives promote inclusivity and economic empowerment, ultimately fostering more equitable development within the community.

02.11.01 My startup contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

6

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification for my startup

Our startup contributes to Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11) by promoting clean energy adoption and sustainable development practices in rural areas. By introducing biogas installations, we enhance energy access and reduce reliance on traditional biomass fuels, mitigating environmental pollution and improving air quality. Additionally, our initiatives empower local communities, fostering resilience and sustainability in human settlements.

02.12.01 My startup contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification for my startup

Our startup strongly contributes to Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12) by promoting sustainable waste management practices and circular economy principles. Through our biogas installations, we convert organic waste into biogas and organic fertilizer, closing the loop on waste and creating valuable resources. By embracing circular economy principles, we minimize waste generation, conserve resources, and promote sustainable production and consumption patterns in our community.

02.13.01 My startup contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification for my startup

Our startup strongly contributes to Climate Action (SDG 13) by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable energy solutions. Through biogas installations, we mitigate methane emissions from organic waste decomposition and reduce reliance on fossil fuels for cooking. By transitioning to clean and renewable energy sources, we take urgent action to combat climate change and its adverse impacts, contributing to a more sustainable and resilient future for our planet.

02.14.01 My startup contributes to the Life below water goal

4

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification for my startup

While our primary focus is on land-based renewable energy solutions, our efforts indirectly contribute to Life Below Water (SDG 14). By promoting sustainable practices and reducing environmental pollution on land, such as deforestation and air pollution, we help mitigate negative impacts on marine ecosystems. Additionally, by fostering environmental awareness and promoting sustainable development, we support the conservation and responsible use of marine resources for the benefit of present and future generations.

02.15.01 My startup contributes to the Life on land goal

5

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification for my startup

Our startup contributes to Life on Land (SDG 15) by promoting sustainable land use practices and combating deforestation through the adoption of biogas technology. By reducing reliance on traditional biomass fuels like firewood, we help mitigate deforestation and land degradation, preserving terrestrial ecosystems and biodiversity. Additionally, our initiatives promote the sustainable management of forests and contribute to halting biodiversity loss, fostering ecosystem resilience and environmental sustainability on land.

02.16.01 My startup contributes to the Peace Justice and Strong Institutions goal

4

02.16.02 Peace Justice and Strong Institutions- Justification for my startup

02.17.01 My startup contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

6

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification for my startup

Our startup actively contributes to Partnerships for the Goal (SDG 17) by fostering collaborations and alliances with various stakeholders, including local communities, government agencies, NGOs, and businesses.

06.01 There are a large number of customers who already use a product/service very similar to the product/service we envision creating.

1 - Strongly Disagree

06.02 The product/service represents an entirely new type of product/service.

7 - Strongly Agree

06.03 The product/service could be described as a new technology.

7 - Strongly Agree

06.04 The product/service is an improvement on an existing product or service.

6

06.05 The product/service could be described as an extension of a range of products or services.

6

06.06 The product/service responds to a demand or need that has not been satisfied by other products/services.

7 - Strongly Agree

06.07 The product/service is a new version of an old product/service.

7 - Strongly Agree

06.08 Justification for my startup

Our project idea is highly innovative as it introduces a novel approach to harnessing renewable energy from organic waste, specifically targeting the agricultural sector. While there may be existing biogas solutions, our technology incorporates advanced features and customization options tailored to the needs of farmers in our region. By leveraging cutting-edge techniques and local resources, we address a specific demand for sustainable energy solutions in an underserved market, ensuring maximum efficiency and environmental impact.

06.09 Competitive Analysis

Our main potential competitor in the Nyeri region is Sistema.bio, which offers balloon digesters. However, what sets us apart is our commitment to providing tailored solutions according to customer needs. Unlike our competitor, we offer a variety of biogas digester options, including floating drum, fixed dome, or balloon digesters, depending on the specific requirements of our customers. This flexibility allows us to address a wider range of needs and preferences, ensuring that each customer receives a solution that best fits their individual situation and maximizes the benefits of biogas technology.

11.05 Are you initiating actions within your community to promote the role of female entrepreneurs?