Household Energy Choices for Cooking in the Mfantseman Municipality, Ghana

Abstract

The study explored energy choices for household cooking in the Mfantseman Municipality. Pragmatic approach based on the mixed-method research approach as well as Cluster, random and purposeful samplings were for the study. Research instruments including questionnaires and interviews were used to collect data for the study. Descriptive statistics were employed in the analysis of the socio-demographic research questions one, two three and four. Braun and Clarke (2006) thematic approach was used in the qualitative data analysis. A multivariate statistical tool such as ANOVA was used to analyse the differences in means of energy choices in the selected communities. The findings showed that charcoal was the primary energy source for residents within the Mfantseman zone. LPG was the second-best thing to charcoal. Wood fuel, electricity, kerosene, and biogas were also key energy sources in Mfantseman. From the quantitative and qualitative results, income level, consumption level, and energy scarcity are the main factors that determine household energy use choices in the selected communities. However, other variables like market price of fuel, energy resource availability, efficient cooking, social status, and so on were also present. In light of the aforementioned discoveries, it was recommended that the development of woodlots in the Mfantseman region should be promoted. Agricultural expertise can educate individuals on woodlot development for charcoal manufacturing. An LPG sales station should be established in the Mfantseman region. This will increase the inhabitants' access to LPG consistently.