Assessing Peak Load Reduction Potential on Distribution Network: A Case Study of Residential Households in Freetown, Sierra Leone

Abstract

Sierra Leone struggles with electricity with a 38% electrification rate. The expanding distribution network with limited generation capacity leads to frequent power outages during peak hours. Demand response (DR), a widely recognized demand-side management strategy, has effectively balanced the electricity supply and generation worldwide. The primary objective of this study is to assess the potential for DR in the residential electricity sector, focusing on drivers such as security, environmental concerns, and incentives. The case study was conducted in Freetown, Sierra Leone. This study employs diversified demand modeling with household energy audit data to estimate the potential reduction in peak load achievable through voluntary demand response (VDR). This study generated load profiles for 12 household appliances and an aggregated load profile for the Freetown distribution network. Notably, the study achieved a substantial peak load reduction of 4.19 and 3.54 MW during the morning and evening peak hours, respectively. Additionally, this research highlights the significant roles of power security, price incentives, and environmental factors in encouraging residential consumers in Sierra Leone to participate in DR programs. This study underscores the response’s role in Sierra Leone’s electricity challenges, providing insights into peak load reduction and the motivation for residential consumer participation in DR programs.