Last week, we had the pleasure of catching up with our first alumni, Dr. Harald Grabher, who successfully defended his doctoral dissertation in November 2024. Harald took his PhD in Social Ecology at the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences (BOKU), Vienna. His research explores the diverse energy services derived from biomass combustion in rural Ethiopian households, extending beyond the traditional focus on cooking to include vital services like drinking water preparation, room heating, and water warming for hygiene. These services play a crucial role in enhancing the well-being of these communities.
We delved into Harald's key findings and their broader implications, his motivations, the challenges he faced, his future career plans, and his experiences as a member of Empowered Futures.
Key Findings and Implications
Harald's study reveals the real-life benefits and energy services from biomass combustion, comparing traditional three-stone fireplaces with improved cookstoves. A critical aspect of his research is the gendered dynamics of energy service generation, emphasizing that women and young girls predominantly manage these tasks. This gendered division of labor remains unchanged even with the introduction of improved cookstoves.
One major finding is the need to reconsider how biomass combustion impacts greenhouse gas emissions. Current methodologies often overlook the full spectrum of energy services, leading to inaccurate carbon offset calculations. For example, Harald explained that improved cookstoves save only about 10-12% of energy, contrary to the 50% reduction often claimed by carbon standards, highlighting the need to reconsider how biomass combustion impacts greenhouse gas emissions.
In conclusion, Harald's research not only sheds light on the broader implications of biomass combustion but also calls for a reevaluation of current practices and methodologies in the field. His work underscores the importance of considering all energy services and the social dynamics that influence their generation.
Motivation and Challenges
Harald's motivation stems from his extensive practitioner work in Ethiopia, Mozambique, and Pakistan, focusing on rural energy and livelihoods. His journey into academia was driven by a desire to address energy justice and social issues. Despite the solitary nature of his PhD journey, Harald found solace and support in networks like Empowered Futures, which provided a community of peers working on similar issues.
Future Aspirations
Looking ahead, Harald plans to continue his research in academia, with a focus on energy justice and social science. He aims to secure a postdoctoral position and further explore the social dynamics of energy use in rural communities.
Memorable Experiences
Harald was part of the 2024 Empowered Futures excursion and communications workshop in Lisbon, where along with other members, he was introduced to key figures from the community and academia involved in the role out and testing of PV technologies within different urban settings. Harald explained that being part of Empowered Futures has expanded his professional network and provided invaluable opportunities for knowledge exchange and professional growth.
“For me, this has basically been instrumental in my outreach and in my network. If I look at my social media account, a good part actually comes from and through connections in Empowered Futures. On a personal note, I'm really happy that I've been part of this. It's been a great experience.”