Is Technology the Answer to Universal Energy Access?

Amalia Suryani*, Maarten Appelman, Niek Moonen, Jelena Popovic

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionAcademicpeer-review

1 Citation (Scopus)
96 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

Despite the concerted efforts to provide electricity through the deployment of distributed renewable energy-based technologies, the sustainability of these infrastructures remains uncertain. One plausible explanation is the inadequate operation and maintenance strategy throughout the system's lifetime. This paper describes the progress of rural electrification to address electrification challenges in remote rural areas and the failures that occurred. Data on the operational status of several off-grid solar systems in various countries are presented. The most recent reports on the subject were reviewed and critical sustainability concerns surrounding the topic were assessed. The paper concludes with an argument that while technology is a main ingredient in achieving universal energy access, there are nontechnical aspects to consider to ensure the sustainability of the technology.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication2023 IEEE Global Humanitarian Technology Conference, GHTC 2023
PublisherIEEE
Pages16-19
Number of pages4
ISBN (Electronic)9798350321326
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 20 Dec 2023
Event13th Annual IEEE Global Humanitarian Technology Conference, GHTC 2023 - Radnor, United States
Duration: 12 Oct 202315 Oct 2023
Conference number: 13

Conference

Conference13th Annual IEEE Global Humanitarian Technology Conference, GHTC 2023
Abbreviated titleGHTC 2023
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityRadnor
Period12/10/2315/10/23

Keywords

  • 2024 OA procedure
  • mini-grid
  • rural electrification
  • solar
  • sustainability
  • technology
  • energy access

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