Abstract
Mini-grids need to imitate the transition path of a traditional grid to maintain their position as a sustainable energy access alternative, while aligning with the objectives of the seventh Sustainable Development Goal. One such strategy is implementing smart-metering solutions to improve business viability and remote monitoring of distributed mini-grid assets. However, selecting smart meters presents a significant challenge for mini-grid operators, primarily due to the installation costs involved and the complexities associated with operating mini-grids in rural areas. Against this backdrop, the current case study’ demonstrates the utility of multi-criteria decision aids, such as stochastic multi-criteria acceptability analysis (SMAA), to assist mini-grid operators in making informed decisions concerning smart-meter selection. In addition, practitioners’ narratives elucidate how implementing smart metering can function as part of mini-grid operations in rural areas. Furthermore, narratives highlight the importance of considering context-specific conditions to avoid the under-utilisation of smart meters.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Article number | 6112 |
| Number of pages | 22 |
| Journal | Energies |
| Volume | 16 |
| Issue number | 17 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - Sept 2023 |
| MoE publication type | A1 Journal article-refereed |
Keywords
- SMAA
- Smaa-Stochastic multicriteria acceptability
- mini-grid
- smart meter
