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Comparative evaluation of rural electrification project plans: A case study in Mexico

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  • Gómez-Hernández, D.F.
  • Domenech, B.
  • Moreira, J.
  • Farrera, N.
  • López-González, A.
  • Ferrer-Martí, L.

Abstract

Rural electrification project plans (REPP) aim to expand electricity access through adequate systems for communities without this service in developing countries. Many REPP have been developed, using different strategies in terms of energy uses covered, energy resources, electricity distribution and management models. This paper aims to analyze and compare REPP strategies. To do so, an evaluation methodology is developed, using a novel three-level assessment approach: the general definition at regional scale, the technical design at local scale, and the operation and maintenance (O&M) management. More specifically, ad hoc criteria are defined at each level to examine REPP fulfilment through quantitative and qualitative indicators. As case study, three plans from Chiapas (Mexico) are evaluated: national grid extension with national O&M; individual photovoltaic systems with regional O&M; and wind-photovoltaic microgrids with local O&M. Thus, the strengths and limitations of each REPP are identified in terms of strategies at regional scale, local scale and management model. Results show the ability of large plans to provide electricity to many families, while small plans may be adapted to the specific needs of end-users. The proposed criteria and indicators can be easily adjusted to evaluate REPP in different contexts to strengthen future plan strategies.

Suggested Citation

  • Gómez-Hernández, D.F. & Domenech, B. & Moreira, J. & Farrera, N. & López-González, A. & Ferrer-Martí, L., 2019. "Comparative evaluation of rural electrification project plans: A case study in Mexico," Energy Policy, Elsevier, vol. 129(C), pages 23-33.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:enepol:v:129:y:2019:i:c:p:23-33
    DOI: 10.1016/j.enpol.2019.02.004
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    3. Juanpera, M. & Blechinger, P. & Ferrer-Martí, L. & Hoffmann, M.M. & Pastor, R., 2020. "Multicriteria-based methodology for the design of rural electrification systems. A case study in Nigeria," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 133(C).
    4. Leduchowicz-Municio, A. & López-Gozález, A. & Domenech, B. & Ferrer-Martí, L. & Udaeta, M.E.M. & Gimenes, A.L.V., 2022. "Last-mile rural electrification: Lessons learned from universalization programs in Brazil and Venezuela," Energy Policy, Elsevier, vol. 167(C).
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    6. Andrea A. Eras-Almeida & Miguel Fernández & Julio Eisman & José G. Martín & Estefanía Caamaño & Miguel A. Egido-Aguilera, 2019. "Lessons Learned from Rural Electrification Experiences with Third Generation Solar Home Systems in Latin America: Case Studies in Peru, Mexico, and Bolivia," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 11(24), pages 1-24, December.
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