Cost of Off-Grid Solar Containerized High-Voltage Type in Cameroon

Can hybrid off-grid systems solve the rural electrification challenge in Cameroon?

This study contributes to the existing gap regarding hybrid off-grid systems in Cameroon by assessing their feasibility and sustainability in solving the rural electrification challenge, as well as illustrating how the cost of energy could be drastically reduced with the generation of power from more small hydroelectric plants.

Is a hybrid power system possible in Cameroon?

The study presents a hybrid power system involving a hydroelectric, solar photovoltaic (PV), and battery system for a rural community in Cameroon. The optimization of the system was done using HOMER Pro and validated using a meta-heuristic algorithm known as genetic algorithm (GA). The GA approach was programmed using the MATLAB software.

Is solar energy a viable energy source in Cameroon?

The mean annual daily global solar irradiation is about 5.2 kWh/m 2 /day with peak sun hours of about 5 h per day thus, making solar energy a promising energy source. Cameroon has many small-scale to large-scale rivers with the potential for power production especially in remote areas .

How much does a mini-grid cost in Cameroon?

Comparing the unsubsidized electricity tariff helps in the identification of the cost-optimal solution of the mini-grid with respect to grid extension. The extension of the medium voltage (MV) line in Cameroon is 10,000 $/km , with an O & M cost of 200 $/year/km. It was observed that the system’s break-even grid extension distance was 2.21 km.