Techno-economic feasibility of a remote PV mini-grid electrification system for five localities in Chad

ABSTRACT This study presents a techno-economic analysis of a mini-grid solar photovoltaic system for five typical rural communities in Chad while promoting renewable energy systems adaptation and rural electrification. The assessment techniques include the establishment of the socio-economic state of the rural communities through a field survey. The costs of system development, electricity tariff and sizing of energy production are realised via the Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE) technique. Sensitivity analysis was carried out to identify the parameters that affect the evolution of the LCOE during the life cycle of the project. The results have shown that the annual energy production at all sites varies between 233 MWh/year and 3585 MWh/year. The highest amount of energy production is estimated at Guelendeng at a rate of 3218 MWh/year and a capacity of 2041 kW, while the lowest is predicted at Mombou at a rate of 211 MWh/year and a capacity of 134 kW. The standard LCOE for the system during the 25-year lifespan in the five villages is estimated at 0.30 €/kWh except at Mailo which was 0.31 €/kWh. This cost per kilowatt-hour is more attractive and competitive compared with the current rate charged by the national electricity company.