Biomass and Biochar Technology Specialist

The subject of this regional capacity development technical assistance (R-CDTA) aims to improve utilization of biomass in Cambodia, Laos PDR and Viet Nam (CLV). This will be achieved through:

(i) harmonization of sustainable standards, certification systems, and other mechanisms to enhance regional cooperation on bioenergy development with food security ensured;

(ii) implementation of pilot projects to demonstrate mechanisms for scaling up biomass investment projects for bioenergy or food security;

(iii) capacity-building support for project stakeholders; and

(iv) knowledge products and awareness campaign. The mechanisms for scaling up demonstrated under the R-CDTA are expected to lead to ensuing ADBs investment projects in Cambodia, Laos, and Viet Nam.

The specialist will

(i) review biomass availability, including seasonality, pricing, quality, and competing demand (if any) and the biomass and charcoal briquetting sector, and logistics issues surrounding feedstock supply for small-sized projects;

(ii) design and conduct a beneficiary needs assessment of traditional biomass, feedstock, and charcoal briquetting supply agents and benefit streams, and conduct a comparative analysis of various biomass conversion technologies, including financing models, delivery mechanisms, and program modalities (e.g., compost making, biochar);

(iii) provide benchmarks for technical performance and carbon credit potentials;

(iv) develop a framework for the application of these technologies, including aspects related to institutional needs, financing needs, and information, awareness, and capacity-building needs, and conduct gender-sensitive capacity-building activities;

(v) conduct gender-sensitive capacity-building activities and interventions; and

(vi) design a biomass conversion pilot project for composting, biochar, etc., where deemed appropriate