EnergyCents Change Makers: Katrin Puetz, (B)energy Founder and Managing Director (Ep 184)
Mar 6, 2025
Katrin Puetz, founder and managing director of (B)energy, is a pioneer in using biogas technology to tackle energy poverty in Africa. She discusses the innovative biogas backpacks that replace harmful cooking methods reliant on firewood and coal. Katrin shares insights on the dual benefits of biogas in cleaning the environment and providing income opportunities for local producers. The conversation also highlights the importance of training and collaborative efforts in advancing sustainable energy solutions, transforming lives without dependence on aid.
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Comfort over Cost
- Katrin Puetz's first experience with B-Energy in Ethiopia revealed a surprising customer priority.
- People bought biogas primarily for cooking comfort, not cost savings, highlighting the appeal of gas stoves.
Dual Business Model
- B-Energy uses a two-pronged business model, selling through distributors and empowering individual biogas producers.
- Producers with excess biogas can sell to neighbors, setting prices based on local firewood/charcoal costs.
Aid-Free Biogas
- Focus on proving biogas implementation without development aid, challenging conventional approaches.
- Highlight the potential for biogas to address poverty and deforestation, key issues in many regions.