In recent years, and with improvements in renewable energy generation, power electronics, and energy storage, mini-grids have expanded as an attractive off-grid electrification option to reach rural and remote communities with reliable electricity service. Some solar mini-grids in Sub-Saharan Africa have now been in operation for more than five years in peri-urban and rural areas that were previously beyond the reach of conventional electrification solutions.

While mini-grid quality of service and reliability have improved, the financial sustainability of individual projects is not assured. In many cases, mini-grid operators face technical, social, and financial challenges to achieve reliable service and recover operating costs. Some mini-grid operators have addressed these challenges by changing operations and maintenance procedures or by introducing improved commercial practices to promote new connections, reduce theft, and recover more revenue. 

This three-part webinar series, led by AmpUp consortium member NRECA International, will address challenges faced by mini-grid operators, as well as opportunities to overcome them and strengthen their presence and service to the rural communities they reside in. There also will be an overview of lessons learned, and innovative approaches to improve performance and sustainability.

Webinar #1: October 11, 2023, 9am-10:30 am EST 

Keeping the Lights On: Learn from seasoned experts who will share their experiences (good and bad) on what it takes to operate a mini-grid in remote areas. We will delve into operational challenges faced by mini-grid operators from Sub-Saharan Africa and other parts of the world.

A recording of the session is available here: https://youtu.be/QGCEuMW_Szk  

MODERATOR:

Zuraidah Hoffman, NRECA International

PANELISTS:

• Tombo Banda, CrossBoundary, Managing Director
• Frank Bergh, Senior Electric Engineer, NRECA International
• John Kidenda, Chief of Utility Operations, PowerGen
• Archip Lobo, Co-Founder, Nuru

OPENING REMARKS AND WELCOME:

• Marjorie Jean-Pierre, Senior Program Director, US Energy Association
• Kristen Madler, Clean Energy Coordinator, USAID

Webinar #2: October 25, 2023, 9am-10:30 am EST

It Takes a Community: Operating a successful mini grid involves support and buy-in from the community it serves. Learn why this is crucial for the long-term success and sustainability of a mini-grid, and how to build and sustain community support.

A recording of the session is available here: https://youtu.be/fHs3nh2KjJ0 

MODERATOR:

Zuraidah Hoffman, NRECA International

PANELISTS:

• Doreen Bwalya, Zambia Electric Cooperative Development Program, NRECA International

• Clay Koplin, CEO, Cordova Electric Cooperative, Alaska

• Aaron Massaquoi, General Manager, Totota Electric Cooperative, Liberia

• Dan Waddle, Senior Vice President, NRECA International

• Emily Varga, Senior Cooperative Development Advisor for USAID’s Cooperative Development Program

OPENING REMARKS AND WELCOME:

• Marjorie Jean-Pierre, Senior Program Director, US Energy Association
• Kristen Madler, Clean Energy Coordinator, USAID

Webinar #3: November 8, 2023, 9am-10:30am EST

It's a Business: Operating a successful mini-grid in rural and remote areas of the world brings on different challenges. Learn from experts who will share how they've reduced commercial losses, increased efficiency in challenging environments, and implemented innovative technological solutions and business practices that can help utilities succeed.

A recording of the session is available here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dUcThqOsFnE 

MODERATOR:

Zuraidah Hoffman, NRECA International

PANELISTS:

• Frank Bergh, Senior Electrical Engineer, NRECA International

• James Knuckles, Senior Energy Access Consultant, The World Bank

• Olamide Niyi-Afuye, CEO, AMDA

• Charles Matovu, General Manager, KRECS, Uganda

• Anita Otubu, Senior Director, Universal Energy Facility, SEforALL

OPENING REMARKS AND WELCOME:

• Marjorie Jean-Pierre, Senior Program Director, US Energy Association

CLICK TO REGISTER