Sustainable energy in rural communities of Bongouanou: Utilizing solar energy as a source for electricity

In recent times, nearly all countries depend on electricity for maintaining a standard of living and the GNP (Gross National Product) of any nation depends largely on energy consumption per capita, which directly affects the growth of the macro-economy. In Africa, Rural Electrification has been an important agenda in most developing countries. The proportion of the rural population with electricity in Sub-Saharan Africa is as low as 8%. This paper evaluates the present state of electricity and the problems facing its generation and distribution in rural areas. It also proffers a solution, which is generating electricity from solar energy using photovoltaic (PV) cells. The case study is Bongouanou, a town located in the central eastern region of Ivory Coast with a population of about 30,000 presently. It is a small community where the major source of livelihood is farming. This paper highlights the feasibility of generating electricity from solar energy for basic household needs, by installing solar panels in each house or a group of houses. This will eventually reduce the cutting of trees and pollution from smoke as the main source of fuel for light and other energy needs in Bongouanou is firewood. The challenges towards adoption of solar energy in this community and its implication towards the environment are discussed.