“Although significant progress has already been achieved in designing cookstoves with reduced emissions and increased efficiency, many challenges remain to develop high-performing technologies that are also affordable, durable, easy-to-use, and meet international indoor air-quality guidelines,” said Energy Secretary Steven Chu. “The funding opportunity announced today will help address these challenges, accelerating the widespread adoption of clean cooking technologies and developing a global market that builds on DOE investments in clean energy innovations.”
The World Health Organization cites indoor smoke from cooking and heating as one of the top 10 threats to public health in poor, developing countries, contributing to nearly 2 million deaths each year. Clean cookstoves with reduced emissions and increased energy efficiency will help prevent some of these deaths. Energy-efficient cookstoves also reduce fuel use, slow deforestation and reduce the time families have to spend collecting fuel, which enables other livelihood-enhancing activities like generating income, caring for family members’ health and attending school.