Challenges to Sub-Saharan Africa's Renewable Microgrid Expansion - A CETEP Solution Model

Abstract

In this paper, the challenges that slow down the proliferation of much needed renewable microgrids in remote underserved locations in East, West and Southern Africa have been identified. These problems can be grouped as Community/Commercial ownership issues, Economic challenges, Environmental challenges, Technical failures and Policy somersaults (CETEP). Solutions to these problems have also been proffered using successful models within and outside Africa. If these can be adopted by the different governments seeking to grow the renewable energy penetration in their rural electrification goals, Sub-Saharan Africa's rural power schemes will be more sustainable and lasting.