Electrification tool for the DR Congo – Phase 3
Project description
In this project, RLI scientists are working with partner organisations to support electricity access planning in the Democratic Republic of Congo. To this end, they are improving the Congo Epela online visualisation platform, updating data and producing case studies on decentralised power supply options at local level. The project is the third phase of an ongoing project in which the RLI has already been involved since November 2020.
Case studies on electrification with mini-grids
The RLI team will prepare case studies on electrification with mini-grids for several locations. The study results will help to make information from the visualisation platform and its connections with real electrification measures more understandable. As part of the studies, the scientists will, for example, identify and prioritise locations, prepare detailed GIS site maps of buildings and activities, or model technical-economic mini-grids from renewable energies. They take into account different energy supply options such as hydropower, solar energy, storage and hybrid systems. In parallel, the scientists are making improvements to previous national population and demand models.
International consortium for energy access
The RLI is part of a project consortium that works with numerous local actors. These include, for example, national and local government, civil society representatives and the private sector. The project is funded by a grant from the American Jewish World Service “11th Hour Project” fund. The aim of this programme is to raise awareness about climate change, fair resource management and use, and the promotion of modern, sustainable renewable energy sources.
Project period: April 2023 – December 2024
Tasks
- Detailed remote mapping of buildings, specific activities, and associated demand profiles
- High resolution mini-grid system sizing and optimization with scenario and sensitivity analysis exploration
- National scale demand modelling code updates for improved usability and customizability
- Population data updates and improvement for spatial settlement cluster data
