Transitioning from Traditional Fuels to Cassava-Based Ethanol: Insights into Household Perceptions and Consumption of Wood and Charcoal in Rural Congo

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) faces a severe energy crisis, with over 90% of rural households relying on firewood and charcoal for cooking—fuels that drive deforestation, environmental degradation, and severe health risks. Despite these dangers, economic constraints and supply accessibility dictate household energy choices. This study investigates perceptions of firewood and charcoal quantity and quality among 287 rural households in Bita to assess the potential acceptance of cassava-based ethanol as a future alternative. Findings reveal that households prioritize fuel availability over quality and health considerations, highlighting a major challenge for transitioning to cleaner fuels. Younger households and those with respiratory illnesses are more critical of charcoal, yet economic barriers reinforce dependence on traditional fuels. Using the Multi-Level Perspective (MLP) and Diffusion of Innovation (DOI) theories, the study underscores that any alternative must be widely accessible, cost-competitive, and behaviorally acceptable. While ethanol presents a promising solution, its adoption depends on price competitiveness, awareness campaigns, and infrastructure development. This research provides critical insights for energy policies, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to break the cycle of fuel poverty and accelerate a sustainable energy transition in rural DRC.