Distributed generation and microgrids for improving electrical grid resilience: Review of the Mozambican scenario

In sub-Saharan Africa, the electrical infrastructure is growing at a rapid rate, mainly through the construction of new regional interconnectors and rural electrification. This growth is not sustainable without consideration of grid resilience. It is well known that the Mozambican network is in need of improved grid reliability. During periods of adverse weather and peak demand the grid does not cope with the requirements. This paper presents an analysis of the challenges and opportunities for improvement of grid resiliency in the country. This is achieved through the identification of the weakest network regions and prioritization of regional development through the implementation of microgrids. An analysis of the grid performance indicators was done, through which it was identified that the northern region of the country presents the biggest need and simultaneously a significant amount of opportunities for improvement of grid resilience, possibly by integrating solar energy microgrids and distributed generation.