A master thesis from Aalborg University
Rural Electrification of Uganda - a Technological and Financial feasibility study
Author(s)
Term
4. Term
Publication year
2015
Submitted on
2015-08-05
Pages
86 pages
Abstract
SISAs rural electrification rates are down to 7 % in Uganda, more than 26 million people do not have access to electricity. There are several issues regarding this, but both human and economic development are proven to be linked with access to electricity. As Uganda has one of the lowest GDP’s in the world, and an urgent need of bringing electricity to those who have none, it becomes important to choose the right way of electrification, both regarding technology and costs. As grid electricity generation is cheaper than off-grid generation, but expensive to extend, it becomes a question of whether or not to extend the grid or install offgrid solutions. This choice is different for all villages as their distance to the grid and consumption differs. Several technologies are applicable as the most important factor for rural electrification success is not the technical aspect but the human factors behind, such as lack of technical knowledge regarding design, installation, and management – these however being general and do not make any technology more or less feasible. The most feasible are found to be grid extension and solar PV minigrids. Solar PV mini-grids are modular which makes a large difference as rise in consumption can be more easily met than for the other solutions where it is necessary to change generator unit. Financially, diesel generator mini-grids are the most feasible off-grid technology. However, as they are only 16 % more feasible than solar PV, which is more technologically feasible, solar PV is chosen as the most feasible off-grid solution. Comparing solar PV and grid costs of electrifying villages through GIS, choosing the least-cost option, it is found that Uganda should be electrified in a 3:1 ratio by grid and off-grid, after a 10 year payback period.
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