Hybrid mini-grids: Smart sustainable energy for low income communities

There is a genuine opportunity for the developing world and vulnerable and low-income communities to leapfrog the conventional paradigm of power. Where conventional electricity is reliant on expensive, polluting and centrally controlled generation (with its spider web of infrastructure and dependence on decades-old technologies), the developing world can harness modern, low carbon, renewable, agile, smart and decentralised generation to rapidly deliver tailored, appropriate and sustainable energy, potentially with increased speed, reduced cost and a better societal fit. But such a marked paradigm shift requires technical, social, government and business innovation, engagement and buy-in. This paper will discuss recent developments at the CSIR at further understanding adapting innovative and renewable and clean energy hybrid mini-grid technologies to deliver real and sustainable decentralised energy solutions for vulnerable and low-income communities, LSM 1,2,3 and 4, thereby improving livelihoods and opportunities for inclusive growth. A qualitative illustration of the “hybrid mini-grid space” will also be presented and discussed.