Michael Dzine's research
Michael research cost-effective electrification in sub-Saharan Africa
Investigating Cost-Effective, Environmentally Friendly, and Reliable Electrification Pathways for Communities in sub-Saharan Africa
Sub-Saharan Africa is one of the poorest regions in the world. One of the key factors contributing to the slow development of the region is the low electrification rates, averaging less than 50%. With the effects of climate change and global warming observed across the globe, electrification of the region has become more complicated than ever. Using a community school in Marondera, Zimbabwe, as an example, this research explored four pathways: grid extension, solar with storage, wind energy, and biomass energy to provide electricity. The four sources of power were compared based on levelised cost of energy, loss of power supply probability and environmental impact.
Electrification of the continent requires a deeper understanding of the context. If we are to eliminate energy poverty, we need to have a clear idea of the resources available and the potential impacts of each source. I hope this research can contribute to the sustainable electrification of the continent.
Michael Dzine
Sustainable Energy Systems
