An Energy-Efficient and Safer Space-Heating Stove for Himalayan Regions: Preliminary Results

In the temperate and cold regions of the Indian Himalaya, coal-fired stoves (called bukharis) are used for space heating in the severe winters. This paper reports preliminary results from an effort to design a more efficient bukhari. Results from instrumented trials in New Delhi, and field testing in high altitude Himalaya are presented for the traditional stove and two improved prototypes. Results indicate that one of the prototypes has an overall efficiency 80% higher than that of the traditional stove, which can result in fuel savings worth about Rs. 12 million (US $0.93 million) annually to the civilian population of the Indian Hymalayan regions.