Rural electrification using a stand-alone photovoltaic system: Case study of Cameroon

Abstract

This paper studies the use of a stand-alone photovoltaic system as a means of electrifying a village in the Far North region of Cameroon. The village is currently relying on a diesel generator. The load demand covers electricity supply and water pumping for domestic and agricultural purposes. Sizing, design and cost analysis of a stand-alone photovoltaic system are carried out. The economic viability and environmental impact of the proposed system are investigated using RETScreen software. The results indicate that the proposed system introduces cost and emissions savings in comparison with the existing conventional electricity generation technology.