Documente Academic
Documente Profesional
Documente Cultură
2011 edition
2011 Edition
INTRODUCTION
The challenge
In 2010, 130 years after Thomas Edison patented a system for electricity distribution, more than 1.4 billion people do not have access to modern energy services.1 In Sub-Saharan Africa, only 31% of the population has access to electricity, with only 2-5% in many rural areas. Electrical infrastructure remains largely centralised; yet grid extensions to remote regions is far too expensive as populations are dispersed and cannot afford to finance the connection fees upfront. Although most developing countries have initiated and/or accelerated rural electrification programmes, progress has often been hampered while not living up to political promises. Without substantial political drive to enhance the living standards of rural areas, progress will remain stifled. In fact, despite the needs, political support is limited. The financial and technical capacity needed to implement large-scale operations is also sincerely lacking as utilities have limited motivation to extend services to unprofitable customers. The International Energy Agency (IEA) estimates that developing and transition countries together have investment requirements in their energy sectors of US$9.6 trillion in the period 2001 to 2030. On current growth and development assistance trajectories, this figure is insurmountable. Hence, it is vital that the limited financial resources that are available are used in the most effective way and propagate private investment.
Renewable Energies
The Alliance for Rural Electrification (ARE) represents companies and organisations who share the view that rural communities in developing countries and have an alternative to traditional electrification and conventional energies. We believe that renewable energy technologies, utilised in off-grid and mini-grid power systems, can sustainably meet the energy needs of rural communities at an affordable price. For decades, accessing electricity in developing countries has been fostered through the use of fossil fuels (gensets) and by means of extending the electricity grid. Due to low potential electricity demand and economic development in these areas, grid extension is often not a cost competitive option. A study of the World Bank on rural electrification programs placed the average cost of grid extension per km at between $8,000 and $10,000, rising to around $22,000 in difficult terrains. Many projects have demonstrated that decentralised renewables are a more reliable electricity resource than grid connectivity due to the overstretched and unreliable capacity of central systems. The volatility of oil prices and both local and global environmental constraints, together with rising world fossil fuel demand calls into serious question the sustainability of gensets and increases the need to find alternative, efficient energy solutions. Furthermore, the elevated operation and maintenance costs, the geographical difficulties of fuel delivery, and the environmental and noise pollution present further disadvantages to the exclusive use of diesel-based systems. In contrast, the low operation and maintenance costs of renewable energy power systems offset the initial capital costs, which makes them more efficient and cost competitive solutions. Renewable solutions offer energy independence and security as well as the inherent environmental benefits of using clean and sustainable solutions.
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All figures are from the International Energy Agencys 2010 World Outlook Report
Another central issue is the role of the private sector. ARE believes that private companies can become a key driver in the field of rural electrification. Many companies have now demonstrated their capabilities by implementing successful rural renewable energy projects throughout the world. However, a crucial precondition is an enabling legal and financial framework. The renewable energy industry grows increasingly interested in opportunities within developing countries. ARE is the visible expression of this trend, serving as an international platform for sharing the knowledge and experience of the private sector. It develops technological and financial solutions which are made available for policy makers and other actors in the field of rural electrification. Development policy is increasingly discovering the benefits of renewable technologies and acknowledging that the private sector has an important role to play. Now this has to be translated into concrete policies, which boost private sector driven off-grid renewable rural electrification.
Origin countries of ARE members Countries where the case studies have been realised
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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Bergey Wind Power: Delivering small wind turbines to 20 households in Tibet, China Eauxwell Nigeria Limited: Solar water pumping supplies potable water to 653 communities across Nigeria Fondazione Madre Agnese Manzoni: Lights in every household in the Democratic Republic of the Congo FortisWind Energy: Small wind turbines powers telecommunications in Madagascar Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy ISE: PV system technology in Ecuador and Peru Innovation, Energy, Development (IED): GEOSIM: A GIS based tool for rural electrification maximizes impact on socio-economic development in 12 Asian and African countries KXN: 551 PV refrigerators for healthcare in Nigeria Outback Power: Delivering solar energy to Apolima community in Samoa Phaesun GmbH: Rural Electrification in Mozambique Q-Cells: Solar energy schools in Rema, Ethiopia Renac: Project TREE (Transfer Renewable Energy & Efficiency) - Capacity buildings for renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies in developing countries Rural Energy Foundation (REF): Electricity for 500,000 through Solar. Now! Network SMA Solar Technology: Largest RE hybrid system on Vaitupu, Tuvalu Solarmate: Solar Power for an African Mission Station in Nigeria SolarWorld: 7000 homes receive clean PV-based renewable energy in China Sunlabob: Solar Lanterns for 1200 homes in Lao PDR Trama TecnoAmbiantal: PV hybrid energy powers a village of 19 homes in Ecuador The Wind Factory: Installation of a Wind-diesel Hybrid system in Ilakaka, Madagascar
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BWC/BBWC provides complete design, supply, and installation services for hybrid power system utilizing wind turbines, diesel generators and photo-
voltaic arrays. Bergey wind turbines have now been installed in all 50 U.S. states and more than 100 countries.
The Challenge
Naqu is a high-altitude county located in the north of Tibet plateau, 4,200 meters above the sea level. Households there are scattered and facing limited access to electricity due to unfeasible grid extension and low energy demands.
Project financing
This project was co-financed by Chinese Ministry of Science and Technology and Department of Science and Technology in Tibet. Tibet Solar Energy Research Institute is the local partner. The total investment is about RMB 2.3 million. As an assistance project, there is no need for villagers to pay their bill for the electrical service.
Renewable Solution
After assessment, a wind/solar hybrid power station of 15 kW wind system (10kW out of BBWC XL.10) and 5kW solar was developed. This hybrid system could produce ~80 kWh of electricity per day. It is a pilot project and more and more RE power station will be established in the foreseeable future.
Project Outcome
Feedback from villagers and the local government demonstrated their complete satisfaction with the project. Through clean and reliably electricity, the living conditions of households have been improved. Electrification enables about 80 people to get lighting, telecom and entertainment services. To ensure the sustainability of this project, some users have been trained to maintain these equipments.
Contact:
Solar water pumping supplies potable water to 653 communities across Nigeria
Company Description
Eauxwell Nigeria Limited, established in 1987, is the leading water and waste-water engineering firm in Nigeria. In striving to improve access to potable water in rural communities, Eauxwell has invested year after year in off-grid renewable energy solutions. Our wealth of experience utilizing renewable energy means we are now engaged in several rural electrification projects in conjunction with numerous local and international partners.
The Challenge
Lack of access to clean water is a predominant problem in many parts of rural Nigeria, compounded by the fact that grid electricity is lacking in many of such areas. The Government has previously installed water-pumping systems based on generators, but these have failed due to extremely high maintenance costs and unreliable components (generating sets).
properly, a local technician is hired and trained by Eauxwell Nigeria Ltd to operate and carry out minimal maintenance. Periodical maintenance and monitoring will be carried out.
Project financing
Projects are funded by the Conditional Grant Scheme in Nigeria, a counterpart fund between Nigerian Federal and State Governments setup to meet the Millennium Development Goals. Projects are conducted in partnership with the United Nations.
Renewable Solution
Eauxwell drilled new boreholes and retro-fitted to install all the required components. Within each borehole, the Grundfos SQFlex submersible pumps (DC-AC pumps) is installed. Grundfos SQFlex submersible water pumps 1. 16 Nos Sharp 95Wp PV modules Northern locations 2. 12 Nos SolarWorld 80Wp PV modules Southern locations 3. Aqualite or Ferrolite Water Treatment Plants dependent on water quality in region 4. Elevated water storage tanks 5. Water management and supply station In order to ensure that each installation is utilised
Project Outcome
Up to 500 people visit each site daily with repeated visits. Some of the greatest successes are increased educational opportunities as more children have time go to school because potable water exists within range of their homes; they do not have to walk long distances to obtain water daily. There is also a huge decline in diseases such as cholera and dysentery in those communities. People have a better quality of life and thus better their societies.
Contact:
The Challenge
In the largest part of the territory, it is almost impossible to access lighting for households. The sun sets from 18.00 pm and rises around 5.30 am, thus most of the population is spending nearly half its day in the deepest darkness; the resulting consequences are negative impacts on their quality of life, family life, security, professional activities, education etc.
Renewable Solution
A central shop managed by a trained worker was installed in each village in the Kimbondo area. Every shop is equipped with solar panels (with a power capacity between 200 and 500 Wp), power electronics, an inverter, a battery (with a capacity between 50 and 250 Ah), and a battery charger with a current output of DC 12 V, AC 230. The shop serves various purposes: it can power a small refrigerator for vaccines, an emergency telecommunication system and at the same time, recharge the lanterns that have been supplied at households. The lanterns are equipped with LEDs, which offer long life, are resistant to shocks, have a lower energy consumption, and good light output per watt.
ing of the local technicians (to install and maintain a PV systems as well as in sales), the installation of the different systems, and the distributions of the lamps, which are fully supported by the Foundation. The third phase and the continuation of the project in the long run (maintenance and sales components) are financed by the users, who will pay to the technicians each battery recharge and the replacement or the repair of any component. Moreover, each charging station is designed as a shop dedicated to the sale of PV components and accessories with the aim of expanding to other villages without electricity.
Project Outcome
8 small rural communities/villages can benefit from this project, which will total around 1008 households or almost 8,000 people. The training courses designed for the technicians are on-going and will continue. In the first year, it is expected that the number of people that will benefit from this project directly or indirectly will be as high as 26,000 people. This number could increase dramatically thanks to the process launched.
Project financing
The first two phases of the project focus on the train-
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The Challenge
Madagascars electricity supply is mainly based on diesel generators. Since they are remotely located, the operational costs are high. Also, the local population does not have the capacity to invest in renewables. An alternative route is needed.
Renewable Solution
The projects purpose is to supply our turbines to the national telecom industry to power GSM antennas. The hybrid systems we install are based on a Fortis Alize wind turbine (10kW), a battery bank and the existing diesel generator. In some locations, solar PV is added. The greatest challenge is making these projects sustainable. This means that in addition to technical solutions, training the beneficiaries is needed, along with a local service network and continued maintenance.
Fortis Alize in Madagascar.
Project Outcome
It is now relatively cheap to install turbines and to sell the electricity to rural communities with the financing received. Even at some locations where there is a surplus of electricity at a GSM pole, the excess can be sold by battery charging for the community at lower prices. The lesson which can be drawn from this project is not to work from the beginning with the bottom of the pyramid, but somewhere in the middle where normal commercial operation is possible. Then it is possible to work with the base from there.
Project financing
The commercial telecom provider and the Dutch government financed the infrastructure, capacity building, and sales for the turbines.
Contact:
The Challenge
The financing of off-grid renewable energy technologies (RET) remains a challenge. Financing instruments such as the Feed-in Tarriff (FiT) regulation in Ecuador would provide a long-term solution for RET projects, yet the institutional framework along with technical issues on measurement and monitoring makes the benefit of FiT impractical. Technical solutions would certainly support this regulation and scale-up not only RETs, but also their benefits in local rural communities.
Project financing
The project DOSBE Development of Electricity Service Operators in Ecuador and Peru was co-financed under the COOPENER action of the Intelligent Energy Europe Programme.
Project Outcome
Within the project, 3 main guidelines have been developed: 1. Service models 2. Technical specifications for photovoltaic, wind and hydropower systems 3. Basic methodology for economic evaluation: www.dosbe.org
Renewable Solution
Stand-alone PV systems, such as Solar Home Systems (SHSs) and PV-lighting, hybrid PV systems, PV backup systems (grid-connected).
Contact:
IED
GEOSIM: A GIS based tool for rural electrication maximizes impact on socio-economic development in already 12 Asian and African countries
Company Description
Incorporated in 1988; IED is an independent French consulting and engineering firm, active in the power sector in more than 30 countries across Asia, Africa and Europe.
GEOSIM tool
As renewable energy (RE) implementation phase occurs a few years after the study phase, the collected data and results become consequently obsolete; updating the results of the paper study is difficult with national planning resources. The challenge lies in developing national capacity and providing the planning authorities with a tool that is easy to update and provides the flexibility to run a number of scenarios.
The Challenge
solar options both stand alone SHS and PV diesel hybrid mini-grids. Options are studied either in isolated mode or grid integrated mode depending on grid proximity and national regulation laws. Indicators for each project are calculated, such as kWh cost, investment costs, yearly maintenance and investment expansion requirements.
Project financing
GEOSIM was developed by IED and used in various projects in already 12 countries. To mention a few, 2 projects are currently on-going: 1. Madagascar: Development of regional electrification plans (ADER Rural Electrification Development Agency), 2. Cambodia: Development of Sustainable Rural Electrification Plans for Cambodia (SREP) combining grid extension scenarios with local renewable energy production, leading on a few renewable energy feasibility studies (Ministry of Industry, Mines and Energy of Cambodia).
Project Outcome
The GEOSIM tool is transferred to national institutions in charge of rural electrification by delivering a user-friendly tool (that requires little specific and technical knowledge) and includes a strong capacity building phase through training sessions. A list of viable projects were identified for RE potential in Cambodia and in 4 regions in Madagascar. www.geosim.fr
Renewable Solution
The GEOSIM tool, using proven technologies, deals with various RE energy supply options, mini-hydro and biomass technologies (biogas, gasification, co-generation) as well as with grid extension and
Contact:
KXN
The Challenge
Kebbi State has a population of 3,630,931 (2005 census), with 617,598 under 5 yrs and infant mortality 120/1000 live births. Due to the lack of electricity, providing immunizations for infants against infectious and tropical diseases is difficult. KXN recognized that PV can power these refrigerators in order to save lives.
two Trojan T-105, 6V, 225Ah (C20) flooded batteries, with Phocos CML10-2 controllers.
Project financing
The project was financed through a government subcontract.
Project Outcome
Since the projects completion: The number of infants served per refrigerator is now 1,200. The refrigerators supply remote areas with quality antigens, preserves the integrity of the antigens, reduces walking distance to healthcare facilities, and addresses the millennium development goals (MDGs) 4 and 5. Further work will include user and technician training, long term systems maintenance and performance monitoring.
Renewable Solution
Sun Frost RFVB-134a vaccine refrigerators each powered by one Kyocera KC125GT-1, 125Wp, polycrystalline or 2 Unisolar US-64, 64Wp, thin-film modules,
Contact:
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Outback Power
The Challenge
Hot and humid conditions combined with salt air have been the death of numerous stand-alone solar power systems on islands in the South Pacific and the Caribbean. Apolima is especially susceptible to conditions that are very harsh on equipment. Therefore, reliability, durability, and the ability to service remotely were major considerations when designing the system.
sists of 84 x 160W Module configured with a total of 13.76 kWp. The modules charge a battery bank and 4 Outback controllers provide for their optimal. 5 sealed OutBack inverters provide 11.5 kW of 240VAC output from the 48VDC input. The system design includes approximately 50% over capacity relative to the current load to allow for load growth.
Project financing
UNDP, the Samoa Multi Country Office (MCO) and UNESCO provided technical assistance and funding for the feasibility study, system design and specifications, installation supervision, and training. The hardware and civil works for the PV system was financed by the Government of Samoa as part of EPCs community service obligations.
Renewable Solution
The design includes protection against the environmental problems and built-in redundancy to avoid total system failure should there be a component fault. The mini-grid system uses the distribution network that was installed for the diesel generator. The PV design con-
Project Outcome
The project has been operational since November 2006, providing reliable power to the community via the pre-existing mini-grid for almost three years with no power interruptions or fluctuations.
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Contact:
Phaesun GmbH
The Challenge
Mozambique lacks basic electrical services. Kerosene is the most common use of lighting, and as a result, health problems are rampant. In order to install PV, a local network of PV entrepreneurs has to be developed, along with capacity building. This requires knowledge transfer at trainings and in local universities.
Project Outcome
Provision of bright, clean, safe and reliable electric lighting, facilitating evening activities such as school studies, village meetings and shop opening. Provision of clean energy to power radio/cassettes by day or night thereby improving the quality of life and general information level. Healthier living environment through reduction in kerosene usage and dry cell battery. Creation of working places for the population in the rural areas of Mozambique. The overall investment lead to a profitable return.
Renewable Solution
Sundaya Ulitium Pico PV systems consist of highly efficient LED lamps with integrated lithium battery and electronics and solar modules. The local Solar Shops and Solar Kiosks sell the lamps, and provide capacity building by training electricians for maintenance and providing lectures for students.
Project financing
50% of the investment costs are covered by Phaesun GmbH and Sonnenplus GmbH. The other 50% by the Deutsche Investitions- und Entwicklungsgesellschaft (DEG).
Contact:
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Q-Cells
The Challenge
Less than 1% of the rural population in Ethiopia has access to electricity. Key issues for the progress of the rural electrification are training of technicians and the assistance of local installers. This is vital to ensure that the systems are properly maintained and consumers are educated how to use the electricity effectively.
cells, measuring equipment, cables, soldering irons and plenty of visual aids to successfully explain the fundamentals of photovoltaic electricity generation in theoretical and practical classes.
Project financing
The project is financed by the organization Stiftung Solarenergie Solar Energy Foundation, which is funded by various private and public persons, companies and foundations.
Renewable Solution
The International Solar Energy School in Rema, founded by the Stiftung Solarenergie Solar Energy Foundation, has been training local technicians in the field of photovoltaic systems in rural areas since 2007. The course has 3 modules: Solar technique, management and practice. Q-Cells supports this project with manpower and equipment. Company engineers regularly travel to Rema with solar
Project Outcome
Since the beginning of the project, 62 rural solar energy technicians have been educated at the school in Rema. After finishing their training, they work in Solar-Centres throughout the country, where they install and service small roof-top systems and also provide financial assistance. The installed solar home systems offer a simple form of development: they allow people to read, sew, cook, draw and listen to the radio once the sun has gone down.
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Contact:
RENAC
Company Description
The Renewables Academy AG (RENAC) based in Berlin, Germany is one of the leading international providers of education and training in the fields of renewable energy and energy efficiency. RENAC has its own training centers in Berlin and Mexico for hands-on train-
ing in photovoltaics, solar thermal energy, energy efficiency, and wind energy. For seminars abroad, RENAC has a mobile Training Center, with which training for photovoltaic, solar thermal, and wind energy technologies can be undertaken on locations worldwide.
The Challenge
One of the important prerequisites for sustainable implementation of renewables as well as regional value creation is the availability of skilled local personal at all stages of the project cycle. Many developing countries lack the necessary financial means and know-how to train specialized staff.
solutions from each other. Also included are a series of publications on legal aspects of strategy development for ministry employees as well as a transportable exhibition on renewable energy technologies.
Project financing
TREE is supported by the International Climate Initiative of the German Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety (BMU), and was recognized by the UN Decade of Education for Sustainable Development.
Project Outcome
In 2008/2009, 560 participants from 14 different countries participated in the seminars. In 2010, 450 decision makers from 115 countries are expected to take part. Evaluation of the first TREE project in 2008/2009 shows that many participants implemented their own EE and RE projects in their countries, conducted seminars or used the knowledge gained for the elaboration of strategies and road maps for renewables in ministries, and other public authorities.
Renewable Solution
The educational concept of TREE is multidimensional. The project also offers online seminars and follow-up advice, so participants have the possibility to deepen their knowledge individually after attending seminars. TREE Alumni also stay in touch through the TREE intranet. There they can exchange ideas, problems, and
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The Challenge
In 2010, most African rural households lack access to modern energy. Even though attractive and lowcost renewable energy solutions have been developed, these solutions are hardly available in rural areas as entrepreneurs lack the technical skills and capacity to start or expand a renewable energy business. The public is hardly aware of the benefits and many households do not have the cash to make the upfront investment. The challenge is to build a sustainable supply chain, boost awareness and improve affordability. This way, millions of households can reduce their energy expenses and accelerate their development.
mand start to develop, REF implements credit and carbon schemes thereby improving the affordability of the products.
Project financing
The Solar.Now! program is financed by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, DOEN Foundation and private donors. The funds are employed where the impact is highest against the lowest-possible costs. Overhead costs have been consistently below 8%.
Renewable Solution
REF coaches, supports, and finances entrepreneurs, their technicians, and sales staff, which creates sustainable supply chains. Awareness is boosted by large-scale marketing campaigns and local village demonstrations. Finally, as soon as supply and de-
Project Outcome
Since 2007, REF facilitated access to electricity to 500,000 people at a cost of less than EUR 4 per connected person.
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Contact:
The Challenge
The Motufoua Secondary School is home to 600 children and consists of classrooms and dormitories for boys and girls, as well as a large kitchen, dining hall, and showering facilities where 24/7 electricity was desperately needed. At the request of the Tuvaluan government (Ministry of Public Utilities, Energy and Industries) for a 46kW battery based and grid paralleled PV system for the school, the largest hybrid system based on renewable energy in the Pacific Region was installed and commissioned.
Germany and Australia. As a sustainably planned project, an 11-day training was conducted by Eco Kinetics Pty Ltd and SMA Australia Pty Ltd with the theoretical contents of basics of PV systems, system sizing, and technology of hybrid systems as well as practical components of installation, safety, commissioning and data collection.
Renewable Solution
The technology used is the state-of-the-art AC-coupled off-grid systems from SMA Solar Technology AG equipped with 9 x Sunny Island 5048 and 6 x Sunny Mini Central 8000TL based on 3 banks of 4500Ah FLA batteries each at 48V from BAE, Germany. The PV system consists of 272 x ERA Solar 185W panels.
Project Outcome
After just one month of operation by the Tuvalu Electricity Corporation (TEC), the gathered data from the system shows already that approx. 46.000 litres of diesel will be saved each year, which is equal to approx. 65.000AUD currently. The school is now provided with electricity 24/7 whereas a diesel genset was the only source in former times being turned off during the night. Above that, this system will also in contribute to the education of the Tuvaluan population and bring forward the technology of renewable energies in the pacific region. Tuvalu has already signalled the aim to install more systems of even greater size on another island in the state, based on the same technology.
Project financing
The system was planned and installed from Eco Kinetics Pty. Ltd., based in Brisbane, Australia, who organised the whole project in terms of sizing, installing and training as well as especially the shipment of 47 tonnes of equipment to Vaitupu from
Contact:
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Solarmate
Installing the solar array (60 No. 190Wp Solar Modules) at Akwunanaw, Eastern Nigeria.
The Challenge
The Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur (SND) require stable electricity for their mission houses located in Nigeria. Unfortunately, grid provided electricity in Nigeria is irregular and unstable.
Thomwell Energy Services Inc. acted as advisor and project developer to the SND. Thomwell was responsible for the engineering and procurement of offshore equipment, while Solarmate (as a subcontractor to Thomwell) was responsible for: a) Provide logistical support in the shipment of material from outside of Nigeria to the Contractors facilities for subsequent forwarding to installation sites. b) For procurement of materials locally as requested by Thomwell. c) For design of certain portions of the installation subsystems as directed by Thomwell d) For construction services of the photovoltaic and related systems at the various installation locations.
Renewable Solution
60 No. 190Wp Evergreen solar modules 12 No. Surrette 4V, 1350Ah @ 20 hr Lead-Acid battery 3 No. Outback 3000VA inverter/charger Diesel-engine generator set 8KVA, 6.4KW, 3 phase, 4 wire, 380-415/220-240 volts Grounding and lightning protection The solar package was designed and installed to provide power the following loads: Lighting, water purifier, general power and Telecoms equipment, for both the convent house and the Primary school. Some of the Sisters at the convent were trained on simple operation and maintenance procedures.
Project financing
The project was financed by donors to the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur.
Project Outcome
The project has been operational since October 2008. The convent houses up to 20 people with up to 100 students.
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Contact:
SolarWorld
The Challenge
Many remote villages in west and southern provinces of China are not connected to public electricity grid due to large distances, difficult accessibility, and expected low energy demands. This denies communities of development opportunities through access to electricity.
Project financing
This project was co-financed by the Chinese Ministry of Finance and the German Kreditanstalt fr Wiederaufbau (KfW). Financial support was also granted by regional and local bureaus of finance. Last but not least, the connected villagers contribute by paying their electricity bill. The regional and local financial support enables the local project execution agencies to make provisions for e.g. subsequent battery replacements ensuring the sustainability of the project.
Renewable Solution
After thorough assessment of sociological, economical and technical factors, each village was equipped with a central village power supply system based on the ACcoupled Sunny Island technology. All power systems are based on SolarWorlds multi-crystalline solar modules designed for off-grid applications. In some villages, a diesel generator has been installed to backup the photovoltaic system in periods with reduced insolation (i.e. rainy season) and to reduce the necessary battery size.
Project Outcome
All in all, 142 villages were equipped with renewable power systems. Basic electrification to power lighting, telecommunication, information technology, and entertainment has been provided to almost 30,000 people.
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Sunlabob
The Challenge
Laos is one of the worlds poorest nations with poverty concentrated in its rural areas. Kerosene lamps are widely used for lighting, which constitute a major fire and health hazard, and only offer dim lighting. Solar lanterns have so far failed to replace kerosene lamps due to low quality and misuse.
ship. Sunlabob provides the charging stations, which are rented to village entrepreneurs via franchise arrangements. A public donor finances the lantern units, which are managed by a village committee and also rented to the village entrepreneur. Following the initial investments, the model is designed to be maintained with rental income alone.
Renewable Solution
Sunlabob has developed a rental scheme to enable poor households to afford solar lanterns. The system comprises a solar charging station and lantern units, operated by a village entrepreneur. Based on a fee-forservice concept, this model replicates conventional fuel consumption practices.
Project Outcome
Pilot tests have revealed considerable interest for our solar lanterns in rural Laos. In 2008, Sunlabob launched a south-south business initiative with the Ugandan company TSSD. Now solar powered charging stations are operating in several remote Ugandan villages. In 2009, Sunlabob was approached by USAID, ASMED, and DAI to carry out an assessment of the feasibility of the solar lantern project in Afghanistan, taking into account the local human, social and technical constraints.
Project financing
The project is financed via a private-public partner-
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Contact:
The Challenge
Due to the impact on the projects financial applicability, ensuring that a long-lasting battery is operational over its lifetime is necessary. The energy supply depends on resource availability and the technical conditions of the area.
3 households respectively. All consumers are supplied with 120Vac electrical energy.
Project financing
Initial investment: Grant by the bi-lateral Catalan Aid Agency (ACCD) and co-funding by Barcelona City Council, the community and the Municipality of San Lorenzo. Operational costs and sustainability: Tariffs are flat rate, fixed for consumption level (550 Wh/day or 275 Wh/day). TTAs design energy dispensers offer dynamic energy management.
Renewable Solution
With a mixture of clustered and scattered buildings in the village, the solution is based on a combination of a micro-grid and individual micro power plants under the same operation scheme. TTAs design energy dispensers are used with a project-tailored tariff system to ensure the energy usage is according to the resource availability and the technical conditions. TTAs proprietary charge control technology is used to ensure long battery life. A single 3,3 kWp PV generator supplies a DC coupled micro power plant with a 30 kWh battery storage and 3,6 kVA DC-AC inverter feeding a micro-grid. Individual 400 Wp and 200 Wp PV systems supply 6 and
Project Outcome
Project feedback demonstrated complete satisfaction from the users and the local authorities. The system has greatly improved the quality of life of residents through providing basic services and entertainment and furthermore, has already generated incipient micro-businesses.
Contact:
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The Challenge
The project site in Ilakaka is a rural village with several thousand inhabitants and is a typical example of an isolated grid in Madagascar. The energy is sourced by expensive inefficient diesel power and distributed by a local IPP. Energy demand is rising due to increasing local businesses.
So far they installed and maintain over 40 off-grid wind turbines in Madagascar for IPPs, Telecom and Private businesses.
Project financing
The project has been financed by The Wind Factory International in combination with its branch in Madagascar and the local IPP, supported by a Private Partnership Program of the Dutch Government.
Renewable Solution
The old inefficient diesel generator was replaced with a modern one of 100kVA and combined with an 80kW Hybrid wind turbine. The wind turbine has two blades with a rotor diameter of 18m on a tower of 30m with integrated Telecom antenna for a local provider. The hybrid controller of the wind turbine has remote control and can achieve a unique 100% wind penetration! Yearly production of the wind turbine is about 160.000kWh at 6 m/s average wind speed. We trained our Malagasy colleagues in The Netherlands and onsite for installation and maintenance of wind turbines.
Project Outcome
Over 400 grid connections provide energy to about 2500 people and over 200 businesses. Diesel consumption is expected to reduce by 40.000L annual, saving over 100Mt CO2. The local grid has been improved and new kWh-counters have been installed. As the biggest wind turbine built in Madagascar, this project has given confidence to local government and private businesses that wind energy is not exclusive for main grids.
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CONCLUSION
Lessons Learned
Despite the breadth in project design, there are some key lessons that emerge from these practise examples: Rural electrification is not a straightforward process. It requires sophisticated approaches and long-term planning and life-cycle costs have to be calculated over the expected long-term time horizon of each project. Rural electrification projects must adapt to local conditions; the mobilization of local communities and local companies is essential. Consumers must be educated on their electricity use, and local installer and technician training is indispensible. Capacity building, therefore, is crucial to the success of implementing off-grid projects. Projects must safeguard operations and maintenance. Very often electricity consumers cannot afford to cover the full generation costs. As a consequence, appropriate financing schemes which safeguard the long term operations are essential. Energy efficiency must be a guiding principle right from the inception of the project. The overall stability of legal and financial framework conditions is very important. If these conditions are put in place, renewable energy technologies can be the economical key for alleviating poverty and bringing electricity where it is most needed.
Next steps
ARE invites all stakeholders in the field of access to energy and energy security to consider the opportunities for renewables in rural development and to take on board the key lessons that our members have shared. ARE invites other project operators in this field to get in touch with us and to share their own experiences and encourages readers to contact the project leads for further information.
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The Alliance for Rural Electrication (ARE) is the international business organisation for the renewable energy off-grid sector. Our members are companies, research institutes, renewable energy agencies and associations. ARE members stand for high quality, experience and sustainability. Together we develop the renewable energy markets of the future!
Information: Authors : Guido Glania, Simon Rolland, Aneri Patel Second edition Publication date : February 2011 Cover picture courtesy of Phaesun Gmbh Alliance for Rural Electrification Renewable Energy House Rue dArlon 63-65 1040 Brussels Tel. +32 2 400 10 52 E-mail: s.rolland@ruralelec.org www.ruralelec.org