Community perspective onRural Electrification in

South Africa

Alwyn SmithSouthern African AlternativeEnergy Association (SAAEA)

Electrification Indaba – Durban, South Africa15th March 2012

BackgroundWe are irreversibly dependent on electricityIncreased demand and use of appliances, cell phones, pc’s, info, health.

. From a novelty to a necessity

. New dispensation and population increase

. Shortage of logistics and funds for grid connections

. Climate change mitigation

. Increasing interest in decentralised generation and distribution through mini grids

The Alternative SolutionStandalone mini-grids that generate electricity from renewable energy resources in rural areas.Solar, Wind, Biogas, Biomass, Hydro, Diesel

+ Lucingweni

Bottled Sunshine.........

Tsumkwe (Namibia)Energy Project

200 kilowatt solar power systemSolar/Diesel Hybrid system

Community based model. In this case, the community becomes the owner and operator of the system and provides maintenance, tariff collection, and management services.Private sector operator. In private sector led systems, a private actor establishes the mini-grid system.

Hybrid business model. This approach combines different aspects of the approaches above in order to maximise effectiveness and efficiency.

Models

Rapid deployment

Always ready for converting to hybrid, connecting and feeding into the main grid

Revenue remains in community control

Skills transfer, training and employment opportunities

Community ownership ensures good security and maintenance

Benefits

Improved environmental performance in terms of energy efficiency and carbon emissions.

Conclusion. Facilitate local research to develop a unique mini grid system based on proven international models.. Show some interest and support alternative energy appliances...... Solar Lanterns/Chargers Small Solar Systems Stoves.Great Solutions start on a small scale !

Alwyn Smithalwyn@saaea.org

Thank you.......