Climbing the energy ladder or diversifying energy sources? The continuing importance of household use of biomass energy in urbanizing communities in Northeast Thailand

摘要: Abstract Following the energy ladder model, role of biomass will diminish and even disappear as rural communities become more urbanized. However, alternative fuel stacking model suggests that, households urbanized, they diversify their sources while continue using firewood charcoal. This study aimed to assess extent which still plays an important a source for household consumption across urbanization spectrum communities. Three villages in Khon Kaen province Northeast Thailand representing rural, suburban urban were selected study. Data collected on uses at level formal questionnaire survey along with field observation measurement. The results showed that total increased urbanization. absolute quantity used slightly when going from (5.52 GJ caput −1  y ) (6.06 GJ caput but greatly decreased community (1.98 GJ caput ), relative share declined greater urbanization, being 46.2, 37.4 10.2% communities, respectively. Both charcoal primarily cooking, small amount home industry. It was concluded although portfolios does decline modern course predicted by there is no sharp discontinuity utilization between different stages be component all supporting model. appears likely remain extended period.