A study on cost analysis and implementation of solar power systems for rural development in Namibia: Case study - Onaushe village, Oshana Region in northern Namibia

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Date
2019
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Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Namibia
Abstract
In most developing countries, especially in rural and remote communities, lack of access to light energy is an obstacle to development. This paper presents a cost analysis study for the implementation of solar power systems in rural Namibia. The study mainly focuses on the contemporary cost for different lighting sources currently employed and compares it with the possible cost of a basic solar system being utilized. The data collected was obtained through a field survey with structured interview questions in Onaushe village, Oshana Region, northern Namibia. The results revealed that 87% of the sampled homesteads had no access to electricity and relied on traditional energy sources such as torches, candles, cellphones and firewood to meet their lighting needs. The study further found that solar power system has high initial cost compared to the lighting sources being used in rural areas. Recommendation for some relevant strategies that may enable the implementation of solar power systems are discussed.
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Keywords
Cost analysis, Implementation, Solar power
Citation
Katanga, L., et al. (2019). A study on cost analysis and implementation of solar power systems for rural development in Namibia: Case study - Onaushe village, Oshana Region in northern Namibia. International Science and Technology Journal of Namibia, 13, 52-59.