Page 7 - Oasys South Asia Research Project - Towards Scaling Up of Electricity Access
P. 7
Abstract
This book provides a summary of outputs from the research carried out under EPSRC/
DFID funded research project on off-grid electrification in South Asia. The lessons from
the studies are first presented, followed by a set of policy recommendations. Overall,
the project finds and demonstrates that off-grid electrification can be an appropriate
option for remote areas. However, no single solution fits all situations and a phased
development process is more appropriate to take care of different levels of needs, local
contexts, and resource availability. Given that mini-grid based local delivery systems
can cater to household needs and productive loads, such an option can constitute
an effective service delivery option for reliable and good quality electricity in rural
areas. While lessons can be learnt from pilot projects, mass electrification requires
scaling up of successful initiatives by providing a supportive environment. Ten policy
recommendations distilled from various studies undertaken through OASYS South
Asia project can guide us in the right direction.
Keywords: Off-grid electrification, mini-grids, solar PV systems, business models,
financing, regulatory issues, demonstration projects, and innovative policies.
This book provides a summary of outputs from the research carried out under EPSRC/
DFID funded research project on off-grid electrification in South Asia. The lessons from
the studies are first presented, followed by a set of policy recommendations. Overall,
the project finds and demonstrates that off-grid electrification can be an appropriate
option for remote areas. However, no single solution fits all situations and a phased
development process is more appropriate to take care of different levels of needs, local
contexts, and resource availability. Given that mini-grid based local delivery systems
can cater to household needs and productive loads, such an option can constitute
an effective service delivery option for reliable and good quality electricity in rural
areas. While lessons can be learnt from pilot projects, mass electrification requires
scaling up of successful initiatives by providing a supportive environment. Ten policy
recommendations distilled from various studies undertaken through OASYS South
Asia project can guide us in the right direction.
Keywords: Off-grid electrification, mini-grids, solar PV systems, business models,
financing, regulatory issues, demonstration projects, and innovative policies.
