Assessing Cable Sizing for PV Microgrids: Economic and Environmental Factors in Focus - A Case Study of Ethiopia and Rwanda

Abstract

To address the problem of unequal access to affordable and modern energy systems (SDG 7) in sub-Saharan countries and achieve the goals outlined in SDG 13, microgrids supported by photovoltaic systems offer a promising solution. However, deploying microgrid systems requires addressing financial challenges, ensuring operational efficiency, and carefully considering each component of the system, including cables, which play a crucial role in power distribution. Conventional cable sizing standards prioritize safety and cost reduction but often overlook the lifetime perspective of economic and environmental factors, particularly for renewable energy sources. Incorrect cable sizing can result in power loss, emissions, unreliable operation, and high installation costs. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate cable sizing for PV microgrids, with a specific focus on economic and environmental considerations in Ethiopia and Rwanda. The results indicate that determining the most cost-effective and environmentally friendly cable size is a challenge due to various influencing factors. However, there is significant potential for oversizing cables in countries like Rwanda. In Ethiopia, there are currently no financial incentives to oversize cables for PV installations under the current circumstances.