Barriers to the Adoption of Biogas Technology in Smallholder Dairy Farming in Indonesia: A Case Study in Semarang Regency, Central Java

¹ Research Center for Sustainable Production System and Life Cycle Assessment, National Research and Innovation Agency, Banten, 15314, Indonesia
² Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Animal and Agricultural Sciences, Universitas Diponegoro, Semarang, 50275, Indonesia
³ Magister Agribisnis, Faculty of Animal and Agricultural Sciences, Universitas Diponegoro, Semarang, 50275, Indonesia
⁴ Research Center for Behavioral and Circular Economics, National Research and Innovation Agency, Jakarta, 12710, Indonesia

^* Corresponding author: sutaryoundip@yahoo.com

Abstract

This study aims to identify and analyze the barriers faced by dairy farmers in adopting biogas technology in Manggihan Village, Semarang Regency. This village was selected as a case study due to its significant trend of increasing biogas installations. Farmers in Manggihan Village have a good understanding of biogas potential as an alternative energy source. They are aware of the benefits of biogas in reducing operational costs, preserving the environment, and obtaining an affordable energy source. However, the adoption of biogas technology still faces several challenges, particularly the high initial investment cost. The increased adoption of biogas in Manggihan Village is influenced by several factors, such as government programs, rising conventional energy prices, and growing awareness of environmental importance. Based on the research findings, it can be concluded that with appropriate support, particularly from the government, the potential of biogas as an alternative energy source in the dairy farming sector is very promising. In addition to reducing biogas installation costs, one strategic measure that can be undertaken is reallocating a portion of LPG subsidies to fund biogas installations. This will provide incentives for farmers to switch to biogas and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.