[Stoves] LPG subsidy to be removed in Ecuador

[Andrew C. Parker]

Dr. Karve,

Thank you for your input.  My concern is that demand for biomass would  
outstrip the supply of agricultural waste and suppliers would begin  
behaving like the charcoal burners of pre-subsidy days.  I suppose, before  
wringing my hands, I could compare the current demand of LPG against the  
availability and estimated energy of ag waste, but I don't have those  
figures available.  Perhaps a grad student could be convinced to do it for  
a thesis or capstone project?

 From the articles, it is evident that subsidies will continue, but for  
electricity, not for LPG.  That should be far less costly than current LPG  
subsidies.  Also, the comments by users of the the state provided  
induction hotplates indicates that there will be a need for a non-electric  
backup stove in most kitchens.

Ironically, if the unregulated price of LPG soars, households that do not  
qualify for the electric subsidy, may be more inclined to use a biomass  
stove (assuming a lower price for biomass) than those who receive the  
subsidy.


Andrew Parker


On Wed, 14 Aug 2013 22:14:47 -0600, Anand Karve <adkarve at gmail.com> wrote:

> there is no need for anything to get ugly if urban households switched  
> to biomass.