Statistical failure estimation method to size off-grid electrical systems for villages in developing countries

Abstract

Across the globe nearly 1.6 billion people lack access to electricity, of which many live in rural or remote areas of the developing countries. The extension of central grid for rural electrification is not economically viable due to the geographical placement and low initial power demand. However, for rural villages, systems that are less reliable than grid standards may be acceptable, and allow for smaller systems implemented at lower cost. This study considers the optimal sizing of PV generation and energy storage for a rural off-grid PV-battery system in Rwanda.