Off-Grid Regulation: How to Provide Cost-effective and Sustainable Rural Energy Services in Remote Areas of Developing Countries?
From 29.05.2009 to 29.05.2009
REEEP Organised
Organised by SERN/Leonardo Energy Initiative
Location: Online-Only Event
Description:
In remote areas of developing countries, access to sustainable energy systems remains often unaffordable for inhabitants. Therefore, special energy supply models and regulatory frameworks adapted to the context of off-grid rural areas need to be implemented to support the dissemination of these systems.
This webinar, hosted as part of the Leonardo Energy Initiative's regular energy webinar series, features Dr Xavier Lemaire of the Sustainable Energy Regulation Network (SERN) – a REEEP sub-network based at the Centre for Management under Regulation, Warwick Business School (UK). Dr Lemaire will explore how regulators can set a framework for cost-effective and sustainable rural energy services in these remote areas.
Energy supply models in rural areas can rely on various forms of ownership. It seems notably that a well-articulated public-private partnership (or public-community partnership) can contribute to deliver cost-effective energy services. With a flexible offer of hybrid electricity systems and the adding of various energy services, small energy companies could usefully complement the role of conventional utilities.
Off-grid regulatory frameworks have to take into account the small size of providers in rural areas. While regulatory agencies need to protect consumers and guarantee the quality of service standards provided by local providers, often in a situation of monopoly, they must also be careful of not over-regulating them.
This webinar will draw on cases from rural electrification programs with PV solar in Southern Africa to start a discussion on the advantages of different delivery models, notably of the utility/fee-for-service model compared to other schemes. It will then focus on the design of simplified regulatory frameworks for integrated rural energy providers.
Participation is free but there are limited places for each seminar so you will need to register. To register click here.
For further information on the webinar series and the Leonardo Energy Initiative, click the website link below.