Addressing the current remote area electrification problems with solar and microhydro systems in Central Africa

Situated at equator level, Central Africa is a wetted area, sunny and not that windy. The region owns important renewable energy potential, namely solar, hydro and biomass. For a number of reasons, this important potential is still suffering from poor development. The main cause of the poor use of renewable energy is the poor commitment and dedication of governments who have not taken the necessary measures to boost enough decentralized and renewable energy. Thermal plants are hence unfortunately heavily used where other alternatives are possible. The purpose of this paper is among other things aiming at showing how solar and hydro energy sources of Central Africa are currently developed and addressing the problems faced. The work also addresses the issue of filling the gap between the abundant solar and hydro resources and its poor development compare to the rest of the world. Based on some case studies in Cameroon, actions to sustain ongoing initiatives and promote their development are suggested. This paper also addresses the problems actually faced and recommends actions for mitigation for a significant improvement of energy infrastructure in remote areas. In such areas, the promotion of renewable energy and energy efficiency are very important for poverty alleviation. From lessons learned, suggestions will be made to help the countries of the region develop a vision aiming at developing adequate clean energy policy to increase the status of solar and microhydro energy sources and, thus, better contribute to fight against climate change. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.