Supplied by Schneider Electric . www . refrigerationandaircon . co . za RACA Journal I June 2024 3
International News
THE ELECTRIFICATION OF RURAL WEST AFRICA – A CONUNDRUM OF SORTS
By Teina Teibowei , Commercial Lead , Microgrid , Power & Grid Business Segment at Schneider Electric
West Africa ’ s socioeconomic development relies heavily on access to reliable and affordable energy . Nigeria , for example , is currently grappling with a severe shortage of access to energy .
In fact , according to recent statistics and with a population exceeding 200 million , only 6 % of the country ’ s rural population has access to electricity . Moreover , of the 60 % of Nigerians that do have electricity , many face constant , unpredictable supply with load shedding lasting hours on end . It is a reality that is disheartening and impacts both urban and rural communities . The good news is substantial investment is underway to stabilise and extend Nigeria ’ s energy supply . In December 2023 , the World Bank approved the Nigeria Distributed Access through Renewable Energy Scale-up ( DARES ) project , funded by the International Development Association ( IDA ), private capital and development partners .
The DARES project aims to provide over 17.5 million Nigerians with new or improved access to electricity through distributed renewable energy solutions . Beyond immediate electrification , DARES promises a ripple effect across various sectors , stimulating economic growth , improving health and education , and promoting climate action .
OVERCOMING RESISTANCE Whilst the above is undoubtedly encouraging , significant challenges remain in unlocking the full potential of rural electrification . Beyond the technical hurdles , one crucial obstacle lies in overcoming resistance access to energy .
The high tariffs associated with electricity use in rural areas pose a significant barrier . In communities with limited economic opportunities , even basic lighting can be prohibitively expensive , discouraging adoption . This is further compounded by the low energy consumption patterns in these communities , characterised by single lights and sockets in homes . Investors , wary of low returns , are hesitant to allocate resources to such areas .
Rural electrification requires not only infrastructure development but also innovative solutions . It is crucial to create economic activities that encourage and demonstrate the value of electricity . Communities accustomed to living without electricity may initially resist its use , requiring a shift in mindset .
PRACTICAL , SUSTAINABLE ANSWERS As an example , in my village which primarily consists of fishermen , introducing electricity leads to a fair question ; " what will we do with it ?" Here , it is important to clearly emphasise how energy is a vital part of growing the local economy .
By providing access to electricity , fishermen can utilise freezers to preserve their catch for longer , enabling them to sell more and earn higher incomes . Similarly , for women engaged in agriculture and grain milling , the introduction of electricitypowered milling machines can significantly improve efficiency . This not only allows for faster production but also reduces the need to travel to other villages for milling , saving time and energy .
The key is to align electrification efforts with economic opportunities that resonate with the community . Demonstrating how electricity can improve livelihoods and bring tangible benefits fosters a shift in perception . Instead of viewing it as a mere corporate social responsibility ( CSR ) or government initiative , communities begin to recognise electricity as an essential service that holds value , one that they are willing to pay for .
This approach not only fosters acceptance but also ensures a more sustainable and mutually beneficial integration of electricity into the daily lives of rural communities . By addressing affordability concerns , creating economic opportunities , and fostering a culture of energy consumption , we can unlock the true potential of rural electrification in West Africa , empowering communities and lighting the way for a brighter future . RACA
“ Significant challenges remain in unlocking the full potential of rural electrification .”
Teina Teibowei , Commercial Lead , Microgrid , Power & Grid Business Segment at Schneider Electric .
Supplied by Schneider Electric . www . refrigerationandaircon . co . za RACA Journal I June 2024 3