Photovoltaics for the Gambia : implementation strategies for renewable energy technology transfer

This research project has assessed the social and techno-economic aspects of photovoltaic (pv) manufacture and dissemination in the Gambia as an appropriate alternative source of energy for development. The research has also considered the relationship between energy and development, the need to conserve and use fuelwood and to utilise the other conventional energy sources more efficiently. The Gambia's energy balance has been presented for 1988/89 to 1991/92 indicating its energy demand pattern. The importance of an integrated energy plan has been indicated with the need to conserve and use energy more efficiently. The project has considered some of the renewable energy technologies that might be appropriate sources of energy for development with emphasis on PV. The techno-economic benefits of PV lighting, PV water pumping and PV vaccine refrigeration compared to the conventional systems have been assessed. The technical performance, reliability, efficiency and costings have been presented for PV systems compared to existing or potential conventional systems in order to assess their technical feasibilities and economic viabilities. A specific case study has been investigated into the techno-economic feasibility of installing PV stand alone, diesel or PV/diesel hybrid systems at Banjul International Airport. Different models of technology transfer to developing countries have been discussed. An assessment has been made of the needs and associated problems for developing countries and the Gambia in particular. The appropriate models and strategy for PV manufacture and dissemination in the Gambia have been identified. Means of transferring these technologies into the Gambia have been suggested. An assessment of the relevant criteria for the Gambia to acquire the PV technology was carried out. Several levels of acquiring PV technology through technology transfer have been identified. A strategy for acquiring PV technology and the dissemination procedure in the Gambia has been suggested