Performance of renewable energy-based mini-grids

Researchers Dr Bharat Poudel, Professor Kevin Parton and Professor Mark Morrison from the Charles Sturt University School of Management and Marketing have undertaken an investigation into the use of electricity mini-grids in developing countries and, in particular, in remote locations. This research integrates the sustainability aspects relating to multiple attributes of off-grid energy projects that have previously been considered in isolation. A partial least squares structural equation modelling approach was used to undertake statistical hypothesis testing of sixteen different hypothesised relationships. The two primary drivers of the social and economic sustainability of mini-grids were plant operating hours and flexibility in electricity usage. Further testing of the generalisability of these research outcomes is necessary to expand these findings to other developing economies and other technologies. It is expected that evaluation of other mini-grid schemes, including in other countries, will achieve such goals.