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The Power of Data: Assessing Operational Energy Use in Camps to Inform the Design of Alternative Renewable Energy

Abstract

UNHCR’s Global Strategy for Sustainable Energy calls for ‘energy-efficient technologies and renewable energy to meet the electricity needs of communities’. The strategy advocates use of hybrid or fully renewable mini-grids, integration with national grids, or decentralized energy solutions over diesel generators, depending on their appropriateness within the local context. It also promotes a culture of energy efficiency and energy metering at all institutions (UNHCR, 2019).

To deliver on this strategy, clear, standardized, and relevant camp energy monitoring data is needed to inform and build confidence in alternative, renewable energy. This study details the energy assessment that was done on the set-up and energy use of the existing diesel powered mini-grid system in Nyabiheke refugee camp in Rwanda. The objective was to provide a baseline of the current energy model in Nyabiheke in order to be able to comparatively demonstrate the viability of alternative renewable energy sources that would mitigate the use of diesel generators, reduce both the expenditure and greenhouse gas emissions of the existing system, and introduce electricity access to camp facilities currently without power.

Further Information

Collections Influence and Impact Practical Action Consulting
Issue Date 2020-12-08
Rights Holders Practical Action
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