Performance analysis of solar micro-grids in rural developing areas
A case study in Sierra Leone
L. van de Beek (TU Delft - Technology, Policy and Management)
P.W. Heijnen – Graduation committee member (TU Delft - Energy and Industry)
Martijn Warnier – Graduation committee member (TU Delft - Multi Actor Systems)
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Abstract
Access to affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy is a key goal of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). Despite this, 675 million people globally, especially in rural areas, remain without access to electricity. Sierra Leone exemplifies this issue, with only 4.9% of its rural population having electricity access. The lack of access hinders economic and social development, impacting healthcare, education, and overall quality of life. While grid extension is costly and difficult in remote areas, solar-based micro-grids offer a promising solution for rural electrification, leveraging the country's solar potential.
However, literature reports performance issues with these micro-grids, and while some factors influencing the performance of micro-grids are identified, their impact and mitigation strategies are underexplored in rural contexts. This research aims to identify and classify the factors affecting micro-grid performance and assess their impact on rural developing areas. The study provides insights into mitigation strategies, considering technical, social, economic, and governmental contexts, bridging the gap between qualitative and quantitative research to improve access to electricity.
The research uses a case study approach combined with modelling. Data collection includes site visits, literature reviews, and semi-structured interviews. The modelling uses Python for Power System Analysis (PyPSA) to assess the impact of identified factors on micro-grid performance. The case study focuses on four small communities in Sierra Leone with varying levels of user satisfaction. Findings reveal that micro-grids face economic constraints, technical limitations, and dependency on government support.
The study identifies several key factors affecting micro-grid performance, including high appliance use, low-quality battery design, and a lack of skilled technicians. Battery performance is determined as the most critical factor, directly affecting electricity availability. The research evaluates several mitigation strategies, such as Demand Control (DC), air conditioning, and additional battery capacity. DC is found to be an effective mitigation strategy, especially in evening hours, enhancing electricity access in rural areas.
Demand Control is a promising mitigation strategy and can enhance micro-grid performance, within the rural developing context. Further research is recommended to refine these strategies and explore their broader applicability to other micro-grid systems in rural developing areas.