The role of hydro, solar and battery storage hybridization in the development of rural Africa

Many countries in Africa have a significant potential for the development of micro-grid, off-grid systems. Local authorities perceive hybrid technologies as one of the solutions to ensure the provision of reliable and affordable electricity to isolated areas. At present, off-grid electricity is mainly supplied by diesel generators, however, governments now plan to use different financing schemes to develop rural areas through the use of renewable energy sources. This paper explores how a number of African countries have significant technological knowledge and experience to take this step forward.