Rural Electrification Pathways: An Implementation of LEAP and GIS Tools in Mali

Remote rural populations do not often have the luxury of viable multisource electricity generation systems. Considering fossil fuels for remote populated areas is not often a viable option due to the fuel transportation costs and the population's socioeconomic status. Extending the grid is often economically prohibitive. This paper proposes possible ways in which Mali could increase the rate of population with access to electricity by 2050 using Low Emission Analysis Platform (LEAP) and geographical information tools. The current energy situation is assessed, and multiple demand and supply scenarios are created to find the most viable option in environmental and economic dimensions. A minimum of 50% reduction of biomass consumption in the residential sector and a maximum of 71% was achieved through the combination of grid extension and decentralized solar PV. Solar PV becomes the preferable option when enough time for the effects of electricity on income is given. When these effects are not present, solar PV is still a better option, as the amount of biomass replaced with electricity is reduced.

Automated summary

Remote rural populations often lack reliable electricity sources, making fossil fuels an unviable option. This study in Mali utilizes the Low Emission Analysis Platform and geographical information tools to reduce biomass consumption significantly through a combination of grid extension and decentralized solar PV. This approach not only improves environmental sustainability but also offers an economically feasible solution for increasing access to electricity in remote areas.