Are there any off-grid solar energy systems in Niger?

There is considerable experience of off-grid PV electrification, water pumping and solar water heating systems in Niger. Each of these will be explored below. The main decentralised renewable energy system being promoted in Niger for rural electricity is solar PV.

Will a 20 MW grid-connected solar PV system perform in Niger?

A financial analysis has been made as part of the pre-feasibility study of a 20 MW grid-connected solar PV system near Niamey under negotiation at pres-ent. It provides a concrete example of how grid-based systems are likely to perform under the resource and macroeconomic conditions prevalent in Niger.

Why is Niger a solar energy hub?

Niger was one of the first countries across the world to consider renewable energy technologies as a solution to its energy needs. This dates back to the 1960s, when Niger set up the Solar Energy Office (Office de l’Energie Solaire – ONERSOL), later renamed the National Solar Energy Centre (Centre National d'Énergie Solaire – CNES).

Are off-grid solar water heaters the future of Niger's energy mix?

These have a specific mandate for different sectors (industrial, tourism and households) to install solar water heaters. The RRA has highlighted that the contri-bution of off-grid renewable systems to the energy mix in Niger is growing.

What is Niger's energy profile?

Niger’s energy profile is typical of a low-income economy in that the household sector remains the main energy user. This signifies a limited use of energy in the productive sector. Households across Niger rely heavily on traditional biomass to meet their basic energy needs.

Does Niger need a grid?

In Niger, the grid offers a significant opportunity to broaden access to electricity, though formidable technical, institutional, resource and financial barri-ers remain. Less than 75% of people in urban and less than 2% in rural areas are served by the grid at present.