Feasibility study for hybrid mini-grids in Mozambique

The feasibility study for hybrid mini-grids in the regions Zambézia and Nampula in Mozambique aims to examine the possibilities of off-grid energy supply for rural development in the region.

Five local mini-grids are to be installed for the planned energy supply, which will cover the energy demand in five villages in Zambézia and Nampula in the future. In particular, the coverage of the energy demand should improve the quality of life in the villages without affecting social structures or the environment.

Socio-economic data important basis for the success of the project

The socio-economic conditions in Zambézia and Nampula are important information in order to assess the energy demand and the technical requirements correctly. For this purpose, RLI will collect data on land use and availability, environment, and socio-economic conditions, such as income structures and demographic data. Furthermore, in close communication with the contracting authorities, suitable areas for the installation of mini-grids and the materials available on-site will be identified. A survey will be conducted to determine the potential demand for electricity and solvency of the clients. In preparation for this survey, focus group interviews and interviews with community leaders and experts will be conducted in the five villages.

Depending on the results of the survey and the potential number of energy consumers, it will be possible to estimate the current and projected needs of the potential market. The actual financial possibilities of the beneficiaries of the planned project for electricity supply, both for domestic, commercial, and community infrastructure such as street lighting and health centres will be considered in detail.

Close international cooperation

RLI is responsible for the coordination work within the project and carries out the surveys and the corresponding energy demand analysis. This will be used by the project partner EnGreen, who are responsible for the technical system design of the project.

The contracting authority of the feasibility study for hybrid mini-grids in Mozambique is the Belgian development agency ENABEL, which is cooperating with the public Mozambican energy fund “Fundo de Energia (FUNAE)”.

Project duration: July – December 2020

• Project management and communication
• Collection and processing of data on land usage and availability, as well as on environmental and socio-economic conditions
• Conducting surveys and interviews in various forms to identify the needs of the local population, as well as the potential demand for electricity and ability to pay
• Writing a final report with presentation of the results of the energy need assessment