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Carbon footprint of solar based mini-grids in Africa: Drivers and levers for reduction

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  • Chamarande, T.
  • Hingray, B.
  • Mathy, S.

Abstract

The massive development of mini-grids (MGs) is seen as a promising alternative to the extension of national grids to achieve universal access to electricity. MGs based on solar photovoltaic are often recognized fully consistent with net-zero CO2 emissions objectives. However, if they have low or even no direct emissions from diesel consumption, they embed indirect carbon emissions due to solar panels and batteries manufacturing. Electrification policies, mainly based on the levelized costs of electricity (LCOE), should likely account for the carbon footprints (CFP) of possible electrification strategies.

Suggested Citation

  • Chamarande, T. & Hingray, B. & Mathy, S., 2024. "Carbon footprint of solar based mini-grids in Africa: Drivers and levers for reduction," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 236(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:renene:v:236:y:2024:i:c:s0960148124015489
    DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2024.121480
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