GIZ Minigrid Portfolio Analysis

Project description

In this project, researchers from the Reiner Lemoine Institute are working with the consulting firm Enerpirica to investigate the factors that lead to the development and deployment of successful minigrid solutions for the electrification of rural areas in Africa. The aim of the study is to formulate recommendations for future funding strategies in the field of minigrids. The project team is conducting the study on behalf of the German Society for International Cooperation (GIZ) for the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).

Strategies for minigrid solutions

Reliable, affordable, and clean energy is a cornerstone of rural development. Mini-grids are an effective lever for this because they can supply remote regions with electricity quickly and in line with demand. In order for funding in this area to be effective, more information is needed on which strategies, measures, and technologies work well in which contexts.

Assessment of success factors

In order to assess which factors contribute to successful mini-grid solutions in rural electrification, the researchers are conducting an inventory of GIZ’s mini-grid portfolio in sub-Saharan Africa. In four selected countries, they are analyzing the successes and failures of past projects. This is based on a review of literature and studies as well as interviews with project participants. The team then evaluates the projects in the context of technological, institutional, and socioeconomic conditions and formulates recommendations for action to promote mini-grid projects in sub-Saharan Africa.

Project period: October 2025 – June 2026