A decentralized energy option for rural electrification - Using polygeneration in India

Electricity access is undeniably linked to equity and economic development especially among the rural communities. Clean cooking energy and safe drinking water are also essential for their socio-economic progress. When addressed in an integrated manner, interventions on these systems could have a wider impact. In this context, this study explores the feasibility and potential impacts of a polygeneration system that provides electricity, cooking gas and clean water to a rural village in India. Developed through a case study methodology, this thesis examines the potential of local resources for power generation and cooking. The system considers the use of electricity for water purification. With the help of a socio-economic survey and a field visit, the demand of electricity in the village is calculated. Based on the results from the resource estimation and demand survey, a polygeneration system with solar and biogas technologies has been designed using the techno-economic optimization software HOMER. The study also estimates ability and willingness to pay of the rural households for electricity. The willingness to pay estimate was based on a bidding game approach, and the influence of price and availability of existing fuels was also analyzed. Based on the existing socio- economic status and attitudes of the local population towards electricity use, potential impacts of polygeneration system on the lives of the villagers have been identified. The analysis concluded that a polygeneration system based on solar PV and biogas technologies is ideal for the village. The project has the potential to supply biogas to 60 % of the households. The levelized cost of electricity from such a system is calculated to be $/kWh 0.262, about five times higher than electricity paid by users connected to the national grid. Yet, the system provides an opportunity to bring energy and clean water services to the village where grid extension is unfeasible due to the particular topography of the region. With access to uninterrupted electricity, cleaner cooking fuels and clean water, the villagers are estimated to primarily benefit in terms of health, education, income generation, safety, entertainment, and comfort