A recent study published in the International Journal of Renewable Energy Development has shed light on a promising solution for rural electrification in Chad, one of the least electrified countries in Sub-Saharan Africa. Conducted by Mahamat Adoum Abdoulaye from the Department of Physics at the University of Nairobi, the research presents a hybrid energy system that combines solar power, wind energy, fuel cells, batteries, and diesel generators. This innovative approach aims to address the critical issue of electricity access, which currently stands at a mere 1.3% in rural areas of Chad.
The study employs a Multi-Objective Particle Swarm Optimization (MOPSO) algorithm to determine the optimal sizing of the energy system components. The results indicate that the proposed hybrid system can fully meet the load demand using 100% renewable energy sources. Specifically, the optimal capacities include 493 kW of solar power, 166 kW from wind turbines, and substantial energy storage solutions, such as a battery system with a charge/discharge capacity of 229,180 kWh and a hydrogen tank with 83,874 kWh of storage.
One of the standout findings of this research is the levelized cost of electricity (LCOE), which is calculated at $0.2982 per kWh. This figure is 51.12% lower than the national average production cost of $0.61 per kWh in rural Chad, making it a more economically feasible option for energy provision. Abdoulaye noted, “The proposed system’s yearly avoided greenhouse gas emissions amount to 374,640 kg, highlighting its environmental benefits alongside economic viability.”
Moreover, the study emphasizes the social impact of this energy solution. It predicts the creation of five new jobs and a significant improvement in the Human Development Index (HDI) of the region, increasing by 17.66% to an HDI of 0.4683. This enhancement in social metrics underscores the broader implications of renewable energy systems in promoting sustainable development.
The findings not only provide a roadmap for energy access in Chad but also present commercial opportunities for various sectors. Companies involved in renewable energy technology, infrastructure development, and energy consulting could find significant prospects in implementing similar systems across other rural regions in Africa and beyond. Policymakers and investors are encouraged to consider these insights for future projects aimed at enhancing energy access and sustainability.
In a region where electricity scarcity hampers development, this research offers a practical energy design tool that could inform decision-making for stakeholders at all levels. Abdoulaye’s work serves as a critical reminder of the potential for hybrid energy systems to transform lives and economies, particularly in under-electrified areas.
