Publications

This manual is an outcome of (FAO/TCP/NEP/4451 -T) project implemented with the Ministry of Forest and Soil Conservation as the liaison institution. In accordance with the TOR of the
Consultant, five training programmes were conducted. These trainings covered a total of 151 participants. Names and sequence of topics as presented in the fifth training programme are as follows:

• Session One: System Approach to Biog as Technology
• Session Two: Relevance of Biogas Technology to Nepal
• Session Three: Biogas Programmes
• Session Four: Utilization of Slurry as Feed and Fertilizer
• Session Five: Installation Cost and Financial Viability
• Session Six: Subsidy and Institutional Financing
• Session Seven: Field Visit for Observation of Biogas Plants
• Session Eight: Extension Support Services for Biogas
• Session Nine: Quality Standards
• Session Ten: Monitoring and Evaluation

This manual contains a complete set of training materials on the above presented topics in five three-day training programmes. This fifth draft incorporated the experience gained in the previous four training programmes. Therefore, this manual in its present shape contains comprehensive and
well-tailored training materials that could be utilized not only to conduct a country specific training programme, but also to be used as a source book by rural development workers interested to promote biogas technology in their countries.

Biogas Support Programme (BSP) plans to conduct various kinds of trainings such as biogas users' training, training for masons, biogas refresher training for masons etc. In this connection, it is imperative that the trainers should be fully aware of all the tools and a sequential procedure for organisation training programme. To fulfil this gap, under the framework of BSP, this manual dealing with Biogas Refresher Training for mason has been prepared as a guide for trainer, with tools and procedures that are easy to practice and are in accordance with the theories and principles of training.

This manual will enable the trainers to plan and organise a training programme even if he or she has never done so before. Just follow the given steps and by the end of it, he or she will have successfully organised a training programme.
The ten sequential steps as presented in detail in the ʺBiogas Training Manual for Mason: A Guide for Trainerʺ are indicated below:
1) Basic Information Sheet
2) Work Plan
3) Course Framework
4) Session Guide
5) Evaluation of a Training
6) Ceremonial
7) Training Schedule
8) Training Cost Estimate
9) Training Summary Sheer and Invitations
10) Conducting the Programme and Report Writing

There is every reason to believe that the quality of training will be greatly enhanced if the person, while conducting the training course, strictly follows all the above-mentioned steps.

Biogas Support Programme (BSP) plans to conduct various kinds of training such as biogas users' training, training for masons, biogas refresher training for masons etc. In this connection, it is imperative that the trainers should be fully aware of all the tools and a sequential procedure for organisation training programme. To fulfil this gap, under the framework of BSP, this manual dealing with Biogas Users' Training has been prepared as a guide for the trainer, with tools and procedures that are easy to practice and are in accordance with the theories and principles of training.

This manual will enable trainers to plan and organise a training programme even if he or she has never done so before. Just follow the given steps and by the end of it he or she has successfully organised a training programme. The ten sequential steps as presented in detail in the ʺ Biogas Users' Training Manual: A guide for Trainerʺ are indicated below:
• Basic Information Sheet
• Work Plan
• Course Framework
• Session Guide
• Evaluation of a Training
• Ceremonial
• Training Schedule
• Training Cost Estimate
• Training Summary Sheer and Invitations
• Conducting the Programme and Report Writing

There is every reason to believe that the quality of training will be greatly enhanced if the person, while conducting the training course, strictly follows all the above-mentioned steps.

The success or failure of any biodigester depends mainly upon the appropriateness of the design, suitability of site for construction and quality of construction works including quality of construction materials and workmanship involved during construction. This booklet highlights the methods for selecting appropriate size and site for construction as well as steps of construction works related to the Modified GGC Model of Biogas Plant for Pakistan. This manual is prepared to assist the masons to successfully carry out their anticipated roles in constructing quality biodigesters.

Further, the report elaborates on masons’ responsibilities; the components of a biogas plant; steps for the installation of a biogas plant, including the selection of the correct size and construction site and quality standards of construction materials and appliances; proper construction of the biogas plant. This part describes the whole process of plant construction from the plant lay-out and digging of the pit to construction of the inlet tank, fitting of pipeline and appliances and checking the gas and water tightness. The report ends with a conclusion.

This curriculum provides training in developing skills and knowledge for people wishing to gain employment as Junior Biogas Technicians (JBT), or other biogas quality check, and repair occupations as specified by National Skills Testing Board (NST) and Biogas Support Programme (BSP), Nepal. The focus of the curriculum is on developing competencies on monitoring of the quality of newly constructed biogas plants and of guarantee/after-sales services provided by biogas
companies, planning quality control (QC) for companies, advising company management on technical issues, involvement in biogas refreshers training to biogas users, company supervisors, and masons and assisting preparing sound promotional activities.

There will be both demonstrations by instructors and opportunity by students to perform hand skills, use tools and machineries, undertake diagnosis and repair of biogas systems. Trainees will acquire the skills using the typical equipment found in biogas repair shops. Trainees successfully completing the curriculum will be able to perform most of the quality check and operation and maintenance techniques of biogas plants. They will, however, need initial supervision to apply these skills to different situations of biogas quality check operation and maintenance systems.

Graduates of the course should be able to easily find employment in BSP and other biogas company offices. They will be equivalent to non-gazetted 2nd class technicians in the HMG system of career ladder. They can be employed as teaching aids in technical schools systems in Nepal. They are eligible for the Elementary Level Certificate (ELC) training at TITI, Sanothimi, Bhaktapur.

This curriculum provides training in skills and knowledge for people wishing to gain employment as biogas mason/supervisor or other biogas quality check or repair occupations as specified by National Skill Testing Board and Biogas Support Programme, Nepal. It focuses on developing competencies in construction, supervision, guarantees and after-sales services. It includes simple drawing skills to understand the quality construction work, pipe work, quality inspection of construction materials, planning work, marketing skills, training the subordinates, communication and professional development. The course also incorporates the basic skills and knowledge to repair and maintain the biogas plants once constructed and being used by the users.

There will be demonstrations by instructors, and an opportunity for trainees to perform hand skills, use tools and machines, and repair of biogas system. Trainees will acquire typical equipment found in biogas repair workshops. Trainees successfully completing the curriculum will be able to construct, repair and supervise the biogas plants. They will, however, need initial supervision to apply these skills to different situations of construction and supervisions of biogas plants. After the completion of each module, the module should be evaluated with the initial objectives in mind. The project should be designed based on each module, test should be administered and a comprehensive module test should be conducted at the end of the training. Trainees' performance
should be related according to the standard grading system.

CTEVT approves the curriculum and the training certificate will be awarded to the trainees who successfully completed the training.

The success or failure of any biodigester depends mainly upon the suitability of the design, site for construction and quality of construction works, as well as quality of construction materials and workmanship involved during construction. This booklet provides the extensive information on various methods for selecting the appropriate size and site for construction, as well as construction work steps related to the Farmer’s Friend model (2005) of biodigester.

First, mason’s responsibilities are explained. Second, the report continues with the sizes of available biodigesters and the quantity of feeding required. Then, the components of the biogas plant and instructions as to how to select the appropriate size are described. It continues with construction materials and appliances, and the selection of the construction site. Finally, the plant construction is explained from lay-out work to the construction of compost pits, finishing work and instructions to users.

If the concerned mason/plumber strictly follows the instruction as described in this construction manual, the biodigester will function properly with the anticipated efficiency and the owner will get the return of his/her investment. This will encourage his/her relatives and neighbours to install biodigesters. However, if the biodigester functions poorly, nobody will be motivated to install it. Poor quality plants will harm the reputation of biogas technology and will have serious negative effects on promotion and extension activities. The masons should, therefore, be well aware that good quality plants will certainly increase the rate of installation with the demonstration effect that ultimately benefits itself, the farmer, and the country as a whole.

This manual provides information to microfinance institutions (MFIs) about financing biogas plants with the aim of encouraging MFIs to include biogas plants as a bankable investment opportunity in their loan portfolios. The manual also provides guidance to MFIs to evaluate and manage risks
associated with lending for biogas plants.

The information provided comprises the plant costs, government subsidy, biogas loan scheme and reasons for which MFI is an appropriate medium for loans. Further, it contains an investment analysis from applicants’ perspective, and a sample loan investment procedure. The biogas credit fund goals are also presented, together with the paperwork to be presented to AEPC for processing loans. An overview is given of the MFI selection criteria based on AEPC guidelines, and an AEPC loan procedure is described. The report ends with a list of recognized biogas companies.

Este documento tiene como principal objetivo orientar a las organizaciones que trabajen con pequeñas y medianas empresas (PYMES) -empresas en diversos sectores de la economía, tales como los pequeños productores del sector agrícola, agroindustrial o forestal- a nivel centroamericano, para que puedan identificar oportunidades en el mercado de carbono para el desarrollo de proyectos de pequeña escala de mitigación de gases de efecto invernadero (GEI).

This guide for using bio-slurry for commercial fishponds was developed as part of an experimental study to estimate the effects of using bio-slurry in fish ponds and identify methods for using it. The aim is to carry forth some information to help farmers use bio-slurry from biogas for growth out ponds.

It describes the pond preparation; fingerlings selection; bio-slurry preparation; method of applying the effluent; feed monitoring; pond environment monitoring and fish health.

Bio-slurry from biogas production has many advantages when used in aquaculture (reduced risk of infection in fish; increasing the growth rate of fish because of more effective nutrient enrichment aquatic biota in the pond). The growth rate can increase, and the survival rate of fish as well, while reducing the coefficient of food. As a result, ultimately it increases the economic efficiency of the pond compared to the fresh material used to fertilise ponds.

The following guidelines will help the trainer in developing instructional plans and activities:
• Study the curriculum and derive aim for the teaching module.
• Familiarise with duty and task under the module.
• Familiarise with each and every technical term (refer to glossary included in this manual).
• Formulate the Technical Performance Objective for your task.
• Break down the skill into individual step.
• Decide the essential knowledge required to accomplishing each step.
• Prepare a performance guide before taking a class.
• Determine the criteria or standards consulting with workers of the related trade.
• Prepare lesson plan for each lesson.
• Determine the instructional resources such as Flip Chart, Flash Card, Transparencies, OHP,
Video, etc.
• Introduce the skill very effectively. This is the best time to motivate your learner.
• Use wide variety of methods to delivery the session like Brainstorming, Group Discussion,
Individual Activity, etc.
• Decide which methods or approach meets your objectives.
• Select wide varieties of media.
• Practice before you demonstrate the skill to your learner. Ask summarising questions for the understanding of your learner on the skill. Provide feedback and feed forward immediately.
• Provide enough time for Guided Practice and Independent Practice.
• Carry out the regular evaluation immediately.
• Provide your learners and opportunity to perform the task in unusual condition.
• Carry out internal and external evaluation objectively.
• Evaluation can be done using:
o Checklist
o Rating Scale
o Written Test
o Knowledge Test
o Observation
o Assignment
o Oral Questioning
o Others
• Provide assignments to groups individually, depending upon the complexity of the task.
• Provide handouts to help gain the required basic knowledge to perform the task.

To safeguard the quality of biodigesters, it is important that effective quality control mechanisms are formulated and enforced properly. The quality on construction, operation and maintenance of biodigesters has to be major concern. Supervisors have to play vital role in this regard.

The overall objective of TOT is to build capacity especially within STEA/TRI, to conduct quality training courses on construction and supervision of GGC model biodigesters, and to develop STEA/TRI as the national training institute for biodigester related technical training courses in Lao
PDR.

This trainer's guide for TOT for construction and supervision of biogas plant envisages helping the trainer / facilitators in imparting effective supervisors' training and preparing the participants as multi-skilled persons to supervise the installation and post-instillation operation and maintenance
services related to biodigester, provide back-stopping services to masons as well as promote the technology at the grass-roots level.

The document contains the following chapters:
• Background
• Training objectives
• Expected output
• Participants
• Training venue and duration
• Training contents
• Training events and process
• Programme overview
• Installation modality
• Training evaluation
• Closing ceremony
• Training schedule (session plan) – Phase 1 : theoretical training
• Activity schedule - Phase 2 (practical on-the-job exercise)
• Training plans
• Conclusion

After this, 27 sessions with objectives listed for each session, training methods, training aids, time
of training and steps to be taken, are described.

To safeguard the quality of biodigesters, it is important that effective quality control mechanisms are formulated and properly enforced. The quality of construction, operation and maintenance of biodigesters has to be of major concern, and supervisors have to play vital role in this regard.

The overall objective of training of trainers (TOT) is to build capacity especially within STEA/TRI to conduct quality training courses on construction and supervision of GGC model biodigesters, and to develop STEA/TRI as the national training institute for biodigester related technical training courses
in Lao PDR.

This is a trainee's manual for TOT for construction and supervision of a biogas plant. The manual envisages helping the participants in imparting effective technical training programmes and preparing them as multi-skilled persons to construct/supervise the construction of biodigester as
well as to promote the technology at the grassroots level. The following chapters can be found in the document:
• Introduction of training
• Introduction of biogas pilot programme
• Overview of biogas technology
• Overview on design and construction
• Biodigester size, construction site and construction materials
• Proper construction of biodigester
• Use of bio-slurry and composting
• Technology promotion and quality control
• Overview on operation and maintenance
• Roles of stakeholders, supervisors and masons
After this, 27 sessions with objectives listed for each session, training methods, training aids, time
of training and steps to be taken, are described.

This manual is for entrepreneurs who are interested in the manufacture of the Biogas Lamp. This manual includes:
• Required material and machine
• Assembly drawing of Lamp
• Part List
• Production guidelines for the Mantle holder
• Drawing of Mantle holder
• Quality Inspection Test
• Production guidelines for Air Sleeve
• Drawing of Air Sleeve and handle
• Production guidelines for Reflector
• Drawing of Upper Reflector
• Drawing of Reflector
• Drawing of Lock set
• Assembly of Reflectors, Hing and Lock set
• Production guidelines for Spokes and Glass holder
• Drawing of Spoke
• Drawing of Glass holder
• Sub-assembly of Spokes and Glass holder
• Sub-assembly of extension
• Drawing of Nipple and Socket
• Drawing of Reducer adapter and Elbow
• Application of Jigs
• Application of the Punching Tool and Dies
• Guideline For Final Assembly Of Lamp
• Guideline For Final Inspection
• Assembly Instruction Sheet (Nepali)

The overall objective of the training programme is to develop the company/NGO staff as a resource person in the field of proper handling and managing the digested bio-slurry. It is expected that the trained manpower would assist their clientele in the managing and handling the bio-slurry efficiently and effectively so that the quality and quantity of bio-slurry can be retained, and/or improved, and/or increased.

Biogas construction companies are concentrating more on the construction of biogas plants and very little attention is paid to the proper use of bio-slurry. On the other hand, many biogas farmers have negative conceptions of the use of bio-slurry. If this situation is not well understood by the Biogas companies perhaps, it might affect negatively in the promotion of biogas plants. Therefore, slurry extension programmes trough a slurry extension officer (SEO) were developed, and a training programme was designed.

Training Content; the major areas of the course are as follows:

• Introduction to biogas slurry;
• Manorial value of digested slurry and factors affecting quality and quantity of slurry;
• Improved slurry utilisation technologies-method of application, composting storage of manure;
• transportation and application of manure, effect of slurry manure on crop production;
• Socio-economic consideration on proper use of bio-slurry;
• Improved shed management;
• Fodder/forage crop production at household level.

The duration of the training period consisted of three days where a half day was devoted to a field visit to observe biogas plants.

To safeguard the quality of biodigesters, it is important that effective quality control mechanisms are formulated and properly enforced. The quality of construction, operation and maintenance of biodigesters has to be a major concern and supervisors have to play vital role in this regard.

In the process to build the capacity of local artisans especially the masons and supervisors, by imparting them detail technical knowledge and skills on methods of construction and supervisions of the household Biogas Plant, a Training of Trainers (TOT) has been felt needed. The overall objective of the TOT is to build capacity, especially within provincial Agriculture and Rural Development Offices, to conduct quality training courses on the Construction and Supervision of Biodigesters. The participants of TOT are expected to organise and conduct technical training programs to masons and supervisors in the future.

The document contains the following chapters:
• Background
• Training objectives
• Expected output
• Participants
• Training venue and duration
• Training contents
• Training events and process
• Programme overview
• Installation modality
• Training evaluation
• Closing ceremony
• Training schedule (session plan) – Phase 1 : theoretical training
• Activity schedule - Phase 2 (practical on-the-job exercise)
• Training plans
• Conclusion

The training is divided into 29 sessions, each with its objectives, training methods and aids, time of training and steps to be taken.

Since maximising the benefit of the operated biogas plants through optimum use of biogas slurry is one of the main objectives of the BSP phase – III, they designed a two days training programme on “Proper Use of Slurry” for the technical staff. It was conducted from July 20 to 21, 1998 at BSP Training Hall Jhamsikhel, Lalitpur. The main objective of the training programme was to develop the capabilities of Technical Staff of BSP for handling the training classes on proper use of slurry, especially for the staff of the biogas companies.

The major areas of the course covered an introduction of biogas slurry, manorial value of digested
slurry, the factors affecting quality and quantity of slurry manure, proper utilisation of slurry, and the effect of slurry manure on crop production.

For better utilisation of slurry and slurry extension programmes, some of the important suggestions derived from the training course are:
• Utilisation of slurry should be an integral component of biogas technology.
• There is an immediate need to create general awareness of the use of slurry.
• More research/studies are required for application of slurry in different forms (liquid slurry, dried slurry, slurry mixed with composting materials).
• In order to properly conserve the manorial value of slurry, pit design is an integrated part of the slurry utilisation programme.
• Subsidy release could be linked with completion of standardised pit digging.