Prospects for Electricity Access in Rural India Using Solar Photovoltaic Based Mini-Grid Systems

Abstract

Solar photovoltaic (PV) based mini-grid systems have the potential to be an environmentally friendly and sustainable long term solution for electricity access in India. However, the high upfront costs of these mini-grids present policy makers, entrepreneurs and consumers alike with difficulties in financing them. Other challenges to their implementation stem from socio-economic issues and from the lack of adequate support from government agencies. We assess the potential for deployment of solar PV based mini-grids in rural India, for the provision of on demand electricity access, 24 {\texttimes} 7, beyond just lighting. We describe one very high-quality off-grid installation in detail, in operation for over 2 years now, that exemplifies the challenges involved in providing sustainable and scalable solutions. We highlight some of the best practices that have been brought out in this installation. We review the policy measures of the Indian government in the context of scaling out such innovative solutions, not just in remote off-grid villages and hamlets but also in grid-connected villages, and argue that the elusive goal of 100 % electrification can in fact be achieved by the year 2022, when India turns 75, given a conductive policy environment.