Potential for Increased Rural Electrification Rate in Sub-Saharan Africa using SWER Power Distribution Networks

Abstract

Rural electrification rate (RER) in Africa is still low to date. Several countries in Sub-Saharan Africa have tried to address this problem using conventional single-phase two-wire or three-phase three-wire systems, however at large costs due to the nature of dispersed rural load centers, low load demand, and low population density. Another solution of off-grid generation creates associated health problems. Therefore, this paper undertakes a review of a single wire earth return (SWER) network as a RER improvement solution. The paper undertakes intensive literature review to elucidate challenges and solutions to the implementation of SWER technology. Advantages of SWER technology discussed make it the choice for RER improvement in Sub-Saharan African countries. After that, a case study is selected in rural Tanzania, and a preliminary SWER network design is undertaken.

Renewable Energy Microgrids to Improve Electrification Rate in Democratic Republic of Congo: Case of Hydro, Municipal Waste and Solar

“…This has led to the observed low electrification rate, especially to the rural areas. Rural electrification rate has been shortened to RER by Irechukwu and Mushi in their publication of 2020 (Irechukwu & Mushi, 2020), where they talked about RER improvement focusing on using cheaper medium voltage transmission line from the grid. Differing from that method, this paper proposes to improve the DRC's RER by exploiting the available renewable energy resources such as solar, hydro (conventional and hydrokinetic), MSW, biomass, and wind to curb the deficit displayed in Table 2.…”