In a significant advancement for sustainable energy, researchers have identified optimal sites for concentrated solar power (CSP) plants across Cameroon using a sophisticated combination of Multi-Criteria Analysis and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Led by Fotsing Metegam Isabelle Flora from the Environmental Energy Technologies Laboratory at the University of Yaoundé I, the study provides a comprehensive assessment of the country’s CSP potential, which could pave the way for a cleaner energy future.
The research reveals that a staggering 42.35% of Cameroon’s land is unsuitable for CSP development, primarily due to land use constraints. However, the study also highlights that nearly 44% of the land is classified as suitable, with specific regions, particularly in the Far North, emerging as highly favorable for CSP investment. “Our findings indicate that there are very suitable areas for the installation of CSP solar plants, which can significantly contribute to the energy mix in Cameroon,” Flora stated, emphasizing the potential for economic growth and energy independence.
The study employed a hybrid approach that integrates technical and economic factors, allowing for a nuanced understanding of site suitability. The analysis considered critical elements such as Direct Normal Irradiance (DNI), temperature, elevation, and proximity to existing electricity infrastructure. The results are promising: the theoretical potential for CSP solar energy in various suitability categories amounts to an impressive 37,536.159 TWh/year across the ten regions of Cameroon.
This research not only provides a roadmap for future CSP projects but also signals a shift in how energy resources can be harnessed in developing countries. By identifying the most viable sites for CSP plants, stakeholders can prioritize investments, reduce risks, and ultimately enhance energy access in underserved regions. Flora’s work underscores the importance of data-driven approaches in energy planning, stating, “The model we developed will enable us to conduct more in-depth studies and select the right sites for CSP investments.”
As the global energy landscape continues to evolve, Cameroon’s potential for CSP generation could serve as a blueprint for other nations looking to leverage renewable energy sources. The findings, published in ‘Heliyon,’ a journal that focuses on multidisciplinary research, emphasize the critical role that GIS and analytical methods play in advancing sustainable energy solutions.
For more information on this groundbreaking research, you can visit the Environmental Energy Technologies Laboratory at the University of Yaoundé I.
