Mini-Grid Technology Is Improving
But mini-grid operators still face technical, social, and financial challenges. Three webinars share solutions operators can use to achieve reliable service.
In recent years, and with improvements in renewable energy generation, power electronics, and energy storage, mini-grids have expanded as an attractive off-grid electrification option to reach rural and remote communities with reliable electricity service. Some solar mini-grids in Sub-Saharan Africa have now been in operation for more than five years in peri-urban and rural areas that were previously beyond the reach of conventional electrification solutions.
While mini-grid quality of service and reliability have improved, the financial sustainability of individual projects is not assured. In many cases, mini-grid operators face technical, social, and financial challenges to achieve reliable service and recover operating costs. Some mini-grid operators have addressed these challenges by changing operations and maintenance procedures or by introducing improved commercial practices to promote new connections, reduce theft, and recover more revenue.
This three-part webinar series, led by AmpUp consortium member NRECA International, will address challenges faced by mini-grid operators, as well as opportunities to overcome them and strengthen their presence and service to the rural communities they reside in. There also will be an overview of lessons learned, and innovative approaches to improve performance and sustainability.
Webinar #1: Keeping the Lights On
October 11, 2023, 9am-10:30 am EST
Keeping the Lights On: Learn from seasoned experts who will share their experiences (good and bad) on what it takes to operate a mini-grid in remote areas. We will delve into operational challenges faced by mini-grid operators from Sub-Saharan Africa and other parts of the world.
MODERATOR:
Zuraidah Hoffman, NRECA International
PANELISTS:
- Tombo Banda, CrossBoundary, Managing Director
- Frank Bergh, Senior Electric Engineer, NRECA International
- John Kidenda, Chief of Utility Operations, PowerGen
- Archip Lobo, Co-Founder, Nuru
OPENING REMARKS AND WELCOME:
- Marjorie Jean-Pierre, Senior Program Director, US Energy Association
- Kristen Madler, Clean Energy Coordinator, USAID
Webinar #2: It Takes a Community
October 25, 2023, 9am-10:30 am EST
It Takes a Community: Operating a successful mini grid involves support and buy-in from the community it serves. Learn why this is crucial for the long-term success and sustainability of a mini-grid, and how to build and sustain community support.
MODERATOR:
Zuraidah Hoffman, NRECA International
PANELISTS:
- Marjorie Jean-Pierre, Senior Director, U.S. Energy Association
- Kristen Madler, Clean Energy Coordinator, U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID)
- Doreen Bwalya, Zambia Electric Cooperative Development Program, NRECA International
- Clay Koplin, CEO, Cordova Electric Cooperative, Alaska
- Aaron Massaquoi, General Manager, Totota Electric Cooperative, Liberia
OPENING REMARKS AND WELCOME:
- Marjorie Jean-Pierre, Senior Program Director, US Energy Association
- Kristen Madler, Clean Energy Coordinator, USAID
Webinar #3: It’s a Business
November 8, 2023, 9am-10:30am EST
It’s a Business: Operating a successful mini-grid in rural and remote areas of the world brings on different challenges. Learn from experts who will share how they’ve reduced commercial losses, increased efficiency in challenging environments, and implemented innovative technological solutions and business practices that can help utilities succeed.
MODERATOR:
Zuraidah Hoffman, NRECA International
PANELISTS:
- Marjorie Jean-Pierre, Senior Director, U.S. Energy Association
- Kristen Madler, Clean Energy Coordinator, U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID)
- Frank Bergh, Senior Electrical Engineer, NRECA International
- John Exel, Senior Energy Specialist, World Bank
- Irene Calve-Saborit, Principal Specialist, Energy Access Partnerships and Innovations, SEforAll
- Charles Matovu, General Manager, Kyegegwa Rural Electric Cooperative Society, Uganda
OPENING REMARKS AND WELCOME:
- Marjorie Jean-Pierre, Senior Program Director, US Energy Association
- Kristen Madler, Clean Energy Coordinator USAID
