![]() In addition, they reinforce the energy autonomy and sovereignty of remote communities. Renewable energy mini-grids can successfully address all these problems. Diesel-generated electricity costs per kilowatt-hour are three to 10 times higher than the average Canadian household. Transporting diesel to the communities that are outside the central grid coverage, increases the cost of supply and contributes to societal inequality. Data: NRCan - Remote Communities Energy Database.) Off-grid communities in Canada as of May 2017, colour-coded by primary power source. However, a significant number of these projects are abandoned shortly after their installation.Īs researchers who specialize in sustainable operations, we identified more than 100 renewable mini-grid projects installed between 19 in rural areas across the world to get a better sense of what factors lead to success. Unlike micro-grids that can power one or a few units, mini-grids can supply the needs of a village, a community with residences and public buildings or sometimes a whole island. Mini-grids are small energy distribution networks that are separate from the main energy grid. Renewable mini-grid energy systems are central to reducing diesel dependency in remote communities. Millions of litres of diesel have spilled and polluted land and water. Bulk transportation and long-term storage of diesel fuel pose significant environmental threats for these communities. Diesel generators have numerous toxic byproducts, such as benzene, arsenic and formaldehyde, alongside their carbon emissions. Households that fall outside of their national grid predominantly rely on standalone diesel generators, which create problems. If we include the people who are not connected to their national grid, the number rises to 1.4 billion. Yet 789 million people living in remote communities and isolated areas globally do not have access to electricity. Powering our appliances and charging our smart devices night and day is something many take for granted. ![]()
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