System Platform Enabling Peer-to-Peer Electricity Market Model for Off-Grid Microgrids in Rural Africa

In most of the countries of Sub-Saharan Africa, a mere 42% of the population has access to electricity. In rural areas, the number is even below 22%. Connecting users in small remote villages to the utility grid is not a feasible solution due to high capital and operational costs. Photo-voltaic and energy-storage-based self-sustained off-grid offer opportunities for rural electrification. We present a concept that provides integrated package of electricity, connectivity, and digital services, that introduces possibilities for innovative electricity markets. Experiences from a pilot microgrid in Namibia reveal economic and social benefits in terms of investment efficiency and social integration.