Showing papers on "Rural electrification published in 2014"

Renewable energy potentials in Nigeria: Meeting rural energy needs

Abstract: Nigeria is endowed with abundant energy resources, both conventional and renewable, which can potentially provide the country with a sufficient capacity to meet the ambitions of both urban and rural Nigerians of a full, nationwide electrification level. Yet, Nigeria has one of the lowest consumption rates of electricity per capita in Africa. With the demand superseding the generation, there is inequitable access of rural communities to the electricity service in the country. There are inherent obstacles militating against the effective implementation of an orderly energy policy in Nigeria. The inefficiencies overshadowing the allocation of energy resources coupled with the near depletion of fossil fuels, make it imperative for the country to exploit its huge natural renewable resources to avoid a worsening energy supply scenario and provide feasible electricity to rural dwellers. This paper presents a review of renewable energy potentials in Nigeria to be tapped for useful and uninterrupted electric energy supply. The extent of renewable energy resources is described and existing government policies are articulated. Various polices, that could possibly incentivize the realization of wider renewable energy applications in rural Nigeria, are proposed. The challenges and future prospects of renewable energy are also discussed. Dissemination of decentralized renewable energy resources will not only improve the wellbeing of rural Nigerian communities, but also enhance Nigeria's energy and economic prospects for potential global investment.

Status of micro-hydrokinetic river technology in rural applications: A review of literature

Abstract: Apparently, most hydrokinetic literatures mainly concentrate on large-scale technologies such as waves, tides and ocean current applications. This could be one of the reasons delaying the utilization of small-scale hydrokinetic river technology in rural areas. This paper therefore critically reviews the current status of micro-hydrokinetic river (MHR) technology for rural applications. Relevant research literatures based on developments, applications, design, operation as well as different MHR technologies involved in rural electrification projects have been reviewed. After conducting these reviews it has become clear that one of the key barriers hindering the employment of MHR technology in rural areas with access to flowing water is the lack of research demonstrating the technical, economic and environmental benefits of this technology compared to other rural electrification techniques. Studies that look towards the long-term perspective of techno-economic analysis inclusive of capital, maintenance and running costs computations need to be carried out promoting the interest in utilizing this technology. This paper will aid researchers to identify areas that need to improve as well as encourage public bodies to implement proper energy policies regarding the MHR technology usage in rural areas. It will also create awareness among site owners, investors, project developers and decision makers regarding the potential benefits of using this technology in rural areas especially in countries with little or no elevation.

Assessment of hybrid renewable power sources for rural electrification in Malaysia

Abstract: Research works on hybrid renewable energy systems for rural electrifications have been quite intensive in recent years. Traditional power systems for remote or rural areas are based on fossil fuels. After addition of renewable energy resources, solar energy applications have become popular in remote energy systems. The recent study and research works show that adding other possible renewable energy resources such as wind, hydro and biomass could make a hybrid system more cost-effective and environmentally friendly. Hence, in the present study, an overview of applied hybrid renewable energy system (HRES) for worldwide villages with special attention on Malaysia has been proposed to help present and future works for better achievement in this field. Furthermore, a proper design and analysis for one village in Malaysia based on proposed combination is provided. The results show that combination of photovoltaic-wind -battery is defined as a cost-effective HRES for villages in Malaysia.

Access to electricity in Small Island Developing States of the Pacific: Issues and challenges

Abstract: Energy poverty is widespread in Small Island Developing States (SIDS) of the Pacific. It is estimated that 70 percent of Pacific Islander households do not have access to electricity, which is equivalent to access rates in sub-Saharan Africa and slightly below the average for low income countries. Pacific SIDS face unique challenges in expanding access to electricity, given that their populations are spread across tens of thousands of islands. Governments and development partners in Pacific SIDS continue to prioritise development of electricity grids, as is evident in ongoing subsidisation of grid-based power consumption and the establishment of ambitious (grid-based) renewable energy targets. This paper argues that traditional approaches to rural electrification which prioritise grid extension are not suited to the Pacific islands region. Increased funding should be directed by both governments and development partners towards rural electrification, especially in off-grid areas where isolated systems are more appropriate. Institutional reform is also important. Regulatory reform is needed for power utilities to extend electricity grids into rural areas. Institutional arrangements that facilitate the sustainable operation and maintenance of off-grid systems also need to be established. Past donor and government-funded off-grid rural electrification projects have rarely been sustainable. Alternative approaches involving payment of output-based subsidies to energy service companies are worth exploring, although will only succeed where sound regulatory arrangements are in place.

Smart Microgrids as a Solution for Rural Electrification: Ensuring Long-Term Sustainability Through Cadastre and Business Models

Abstract: The provision of energy at the local level by using renewable and local resources is increasingly acknowledged as a techno-economic solution for rural electrification. This work describes an approach for implementing microgrid projects at the institutional level by means of a specific entity that uses methods that engage the community in microgrid operation and maintenance (OM), which ensures long-run benefits. The first step, related to macro-level barriers, is addressed by building a complete cadastre of isolated communities, while the second, at the micro level, focuses on business models for covering investment and OM costs. A cadastre uncovers the key characteristics of each location (energy resources, availability, socio-economic conditions, environment, etc.). A cadastre also helps identify local needs, develop monitoring strategies, and determine benchmarks among microgrids. Its information also assists with proposing new projects, securing funding, and monitoring actual microgrids. At the micro level, local stakeholders, economic capabilities, social capital, and organizational structures are identified, which contribute to the selection of a tailored business model that can enable fundraising and OM activities. The approach is presented in a four-stage framework: 1) background data collection; 2) community profile building; 3) system design; and 4) detailed engineering. Each community is evaluated by a prioritization index that considers the electrical conditions of each residence.

The user-value of rural electrification: An analysis and adoption of existing models and theories

Abstract: User-value is a determining factor for product acceptance in product design. Research on rural electrification to date, however, does not draw sufficient attention to the importance of user-value with regard to the overall success of a project. This is evident from the analysis of project reports and applicable indicators from agencies active in the sector. Learning from the design, psychology and sociology literatures, it is important that rural electrification projects incorporate the value perception of the end-user and extend their success beyond the commonly used criteria of financial value, the appropriateness of the technology, capacity building and technology uptake. Creating value for the end-user is particularly important for project acceptance and the sustainability of a scheme once it has been handed over to the local community. In this research paper, existing theories and models of value-theory are transposed and applied to community operated rural electrification schemes and a user-value framework is developed. Furthermore, the importance of value to the end-user is clarified. Current literature on product design reveals that user-value has different properties, many of which are applicable to rural electrification. Five value pillars and their sub-categories important for the users of rural electrification projects are identified, namely: functional; social significance; epistemic; emotional; and cultural values. These pillars provide the main structure for the conceptual framework developed in this research paper. It is proposed that by targeting the values of the end-user, the key factors of user-value applicable to rural electrification projects will be identified and the sustainability of the project will be better ensured.

From the bottom up : how small power producers and mini-grids can deliver electrification and renewable energy in Africa

Abstract: Rural Africa's low level of electrification is a topic of much discussion. One widely cited estimate is that only fourteen percent of rural households in Sub- Saharan Africa have access to electricity (2012). As a first step to improving access, most governments in the region have developed national electrification strategies. Virtually every one of those strategies recommends a two-track approach to providing greater access to grid-based electrification. Although there is widespread agreement on the need for a two-track approach, most national electrification strategies contain few, if any, details on how the two tracks should be implemented. This guide focuses on the regulatory and policy decisions that African electricity regulators and policy makers must make to create a sustainable decentralized track and how the decentralized track can complement the traditional centralized track.

Towards understanding the benefits and challenges of Smart/Micro-Grid for electricity supply system in Nigeria

Abstract: The poor state of electricity supply system in Nigeria is threatening the welfare and security of life and properties of millions of individuals with adverse economic consequences for the country. The inadequacy of the national grid, especially the inability of the electricity generation capacity to match increasing demand in the country has led to increasing agitation for increased penetration of renewable energy sources (RESs) into the electricity supply mix. While great attention has been focused on the potential of RESs for electricity generation in the country, little or no attention has been given to the application of Smart/Micro-Grid (SM-G) technologies to the ageing Nigeria grid infrastructures and electrification of the rural areas. The aim of this paper is to bring into focus the benefits and challenges of enabling SM-G in the electricity supply system in Nigeria. SM-G will bring benefits to the electricity stakeholders in form of improvements in reliability, efficiency, economics, environment, security and safety. The paper gives an overview and reviews the current state of the electricity supply system in the country. It discusses the SM-G concepts and associated technologies, and highlights how they can help address the electricity problems in the country. The challenges of applying these concepts in Nigeria context are also discussed. Enabling SM-G in the country will not only lead to improvement in the quality, efficiency and reliability of the electricity grid, but also promote the provision of electricity supply to the remote rural areas using RESs.

Tracking Electrification in Vietnam Using Nighttime Lights

Abstract: The authors report on a systematic ground-based validation of DMSP-OLS night lights imagery to detect rural electrification in Vietnam. Based on an original survey of village-level units in Vietnam, this study compares nighttime light output from the U.S. Air Force Defense Meteorological Satellite Program’s Operational Linescan System (DMSP-OLS) against ground-based survey data on electrical infrastructure and electricity use in 200 electrified villages. Monthly and annual composites record a one-point increase in brightness along DMSP-OLS’s 63-point brightness scale for every 60–70 additional street lights or 240–270 electrified homes. Using a time series of 90 nightly images, the data show a one-point increase in brightness for every 125–200 additional streetlights, or 550–700 additional electrified homes. The results highlight the potential to use night lights imagery to support efforts to connect the 1.2 billion people who lack electricity around the world.

Remote Access: Context, Challenges, and Obstacles in Rural Electrification

Abstract: The World Bank, identifies, as the main world challenge in the energy sector, the need to make more energy available at affordable prices to enable all people to use modern energy to meet their basic needs, given that about 1.2 billion people do not have access to electricity today. Many challenges present themselves, particularly those regarding electricity supply to rural and remote areas in the developing world that still lack it. There is a rather large difference between the challenges facing electrification in countries with a mature electric infrastructure and in developing economies. In most countries with a mature electric infrastructure, access to electricity is taken for granted, though utilities are grappling with the challenge of connecting a variety of distributed generators to existing distribution grids while maintaining the security of supply. Generally speaking, the consumer base is well educated, services are relatively affordable, and the relationship of the utilities with their customers is usually well developed.

Techno-economic and environmental evaluation of demand side management techniques for rural electrification in Ibadan, Nigeria

Abstract: According to the United Nation Development Programme, access to modern low-cost energy systems in developing countries is important in the realization of the globally agreed developmental goals, as well as the Millennium Development Goals, and sustainable development, which would assist in the reduction of poverty and to improve the conditions and quality of life for the greater part of the world’s population. Planners have suggested hybrid energy system for the electrification of rural areas worldwide. This study investigates the techno-economic and environmental effect of applying demand side management (DSM) activities to rural loads before design and sizing of hybrid energy systems for such community. Iporin a rural area in Ibadan, Nigeria which is endowed with an average daily solar radiation of 3.84 kWh/m2/day was taken as a case study. The total daily consumption which was initially estimated as 297 kWh/day after the application of DSM techniques dropped to 130 kWh/day representing a decrease of 56.80 %. Hybrid Optimization Model for Electric Renewables software was used for simulation and optimization purpose. Parameters such as DSM index, net present cost, and emission level were used in determining the effect of the DSM technique. Overall, the DSM activities proved to be more economical and environmental friendly.

Determinants of Livelihood Choices: An Empirical Analysis from Rural Bangladesh

Abstract: The study identifies socio-economic determinants of livelihood choices of rural households in Bangladesh (4,195 households from 139 villages) by applying a multinomial logit model of occupational choice and a multivariate Tobit model that allows for jointness in decision making. Results reveal that households choose multiple livelihood options. A number of socio-economic factors and resources at the household level as well as the state of rural infrastructure significantly determine households’ livelihood choice. Overall, resource-rich and educated households engage in diversified livelihoods and rural infrastructure promotes such diversification. Female-headed households fail to participate in any of the livelihood categories and consequently earn significantly lower income. Policy implications include investment in rural infrastructure, irrigation, rural electrification, education, livestock resources, as well as targeting of female-headed households, for example, creation of a hired labour market and s...

A survey of innovative technologies increasing the viability of micro-hydropower as a cost effective rural electrification option in South Africa

Abstract: The aim of this paper is to provide a survey of different innovative technologies that can be applied to the micro-hydropower system to make it cost effective for rural energy supply. Electrical, mechanical, civil or electronic technologies that can increase the viability of micro-hydropower as a cost-effective energy source for remote and isolated communities in rural South Africa are presented. The motivation behind this study is that there are a significant number of potential sites in South Africa where micro-hydropower is a viable energy option to provide reliable and low cost energy and where conventional schemes are not appropriate.

Early Adopters of Solar Panels in Developing Countries: Evidence from Tanzania

Abstract: Who pioneers the adoption of solar home systems as a source of power in developing countries? While many scholars of electrification praise off-grid options, evidence on their adoption from nationally representative surveys is lacking. We test existing and new hypotheses using the 2007 Tanzanian National Household Budget Survey. Since the survey is nationally representative and has more than 10,000 respondent households, it is ideal for our purposes. We find modest support for the notion that wealthier households adopt more readily than poorer ones. Surprisingly, electrified households adopt solar home systems more readily than other households, suggesting that solar home systems provide backup power. We further find that larger households adopt more readily than smaller ones and that a rural location or high education levels do not predict solar power use. These findings suggest that new policies are needed to promote solar home systems in poor and rural areas, where their development effectiveness is maximal.

It Takes a Village: Social SCADA and Approaches to Community Engagement in Isolated Microgrids

Abstract: The World Bank, one of the most important supporters of rural electrification projects, estimates that approximately 1.2 billion people do not have regular access to electricity. In Latin America as a whole, according to the International Energy Agency, the electrification rate has reached 92.3% but that still leaves 33.8 million people without access to electricity (see Figure 1). They live mostly in rural and isolated areas that are often neglected by electrification projects due to the high associated costs and technical difficulties.

Advances in nanogrid technology and its integration into rural electrification in India

Abstract: Nanogrids are small residential power systems with renewable sources, storage, and domestic loads. It may or may not have connectivity to utility grid. This paper discusses the role of advanced converter technology for Nanogrids in solving acute power shortage problem in Rural India. The paper is divided into two sections. In the first section, the advances in Nanogrid converter technology are discussed. The implementations and advantages of multi-output converters are delineated. In the second section, some proposals are presented to incorporate these new technologies for easy adaption in rural electrification. A prototype is built using off-the-shelf components and commercial loads to prove the usability of the proposed concepts.

The DC House project: An alternate solution for rural electrification

Abstract: The DC House project started in 2010 which aims to provide an alternative solution to rural electrification, especially for geographically hard-to-reach areas. The DC House offers an individual or family-based as opposed to the community-based rural electrification. This makes the DC House solution scalable, affordable, and flexible. It does this by operating its components and system based on low-power, low-voltage DC electrical system to directly run DC loads; thus, bypassing losses associated with the traditional AC voltage system. The DC House also uses human-powered energy sources, making it even more sustainable in producing electricity. The development of the DC House system along with its components will be presented. Recent status of the DC House including the various projects undertaken to construct it and plans for its field testing will also be summarized.

A case study for micro‐grid PV: lessons learned from a rural electrification project in India

Abstract: Micro-grids in developing countries present a significant application opportunity for photovoltaics (PV) as an energy-enabling technology The authors project 10 GW for this application in the next decade The growth of this sector will be enhanced by shared learning of the best practices The authors are part of a team that successfully installed 1/3 MW in micro-grids and presented the lessons learned and a useful methodology for determining key metrics The PV is part of the rural electrification in India and is representative of current global PV micro-grids This project provides basic lighting and electricity for 57 villages in Visakhapatnam in India The project was carried out with a goal of optimizing power against cost Various metrics are presented: costs, time, operations and maintenance, and performance Also discussed are implementation strategies for cost containment, stakeholder considerations, and post-install support and user payment collection Learning points are presented on project execution, engagement of local people, and challenges addressed The aspect of demand capacity level (hours of availability) is examined in more detail, with modeling being performed to identify an optimal approach to increasing the level given the cost constraints The combination of real data and modeling is a useful approach for PV and micro-grid optimization This case study quantitatively supports the value of the use of PV for rural electrification Beyond this example in India, where the federal government is planning an increase to more than 2000 sites, there is a significant opportunity for PV in the global micro-grid electrification context Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd

Barriers to Electrification for "Under Grid" Households in Rural Kenya

Abstract: In Sub-Saharan Africa, 600 million people live without electricity Despite ambitions of governments and donors to invest in rural electrification, decisions about how to extend electricity access are being made in the absence of rigorous evidence Using a novel dataset of 20,000 geo-tagged structures in rural Western Kenya, we provide descriptive evidence that electrification rates remain very low despite significant investments in grid infrastructure This pattern holds across time and for both poor and relatively well-off households and businesses We argue that if governments wish to leverage existing infrastructure and economies of scale, subsidies and new approaches to financing connections are necessary