Solar panels for rural households in Niger

Is solar PV a viable rural electrification technology in Niger?

Gifted with high solar irradiation, Niger lies in the zone where the solar photovoltaics (PV) technology could be economically most viable . Therefore, solar PV has been considered as the rural electrification technology in this study. The deployment of renewable energy technologies does not come without recurring obstacles [ 12 ].

Would a non-electrified rural village in Niger pay for electricity services?

Method A comparative analysis method was chosen to ascertain whether the population of a non-electrified rural village in Niger would be willing to pay for electricity services provided through renewable energy technologies, and whether the concepts of collaborative consumption and shared ownership had any influence on it.

Which energy source is most used in rural Niger?

As it was obviously visible at the site, biomass is the mostly used energy source in rural Niger. It includes firewood, charcoal and agricultural waste. These energy forms are used to cook food and heat water on open fire stoves. All of the respondents said they use firewood for such activities.

How can we reduce energy costs in Niger?

A possible reduction of about 80% of the monthly energy costs can be achieved. The WTP in collaborative consumption operational model increased from 17% to 81%. Through demand side management, off grid renewables can be accommodated. About 84% of the population in Niger live in rural areas and only about 8% of them have access to electricity.