Solar energy: a photovoltaic power plant for the electrification of Kégnéko

The team of researchers from Gamal Abdel Nasser University in Conakry, led by Dr. Mohamed Fofana, proposes a lasting solution for the electrification of Kégnéko, a locality located in the Mamou region.

The issue of the study concerns the realization of the dimensioning of a photovoltaic plant must use the abundant solar energy in the sub-prefecture to satisfy the energy needs of the populations.

A major energy issue

Kégnéko is a sub-prefecture of the prefecture of Mamou, in Middle Guinea, it is located one hour as the crow flies from the capital of the prefecture. Populated by approximately 25,000 inhabitants, Kégnéko, like a large number of sub-prefectures in Guinea, faces a real challenge, namely access to electricity, a barrier to education, access to health care and the diversification of economic activities. According to researchers' estimates, the annual energy need of the locality is approximately 100,000 kWh.

To meet these compelling requirements, the authors' solution focuses on the installation of a power plant with a power of 50 kW, or 200 250W solar panels, with a storage capacity of 200 kWh in order to supply the locality in a stable manner. Ultimately, the installation of a solar power plant in Kégnéko will be able to provide electricity at all times, for residents as well as for collective installations, and significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and deforestation.

A pilot project in Kégnéko capable of serving as a model for other initiatives

The authors wish to see this implementation in Kégnéko as a model, despite the need to call on public and private funding, advocating as a priority the training of residents, to enable them to learn the operation and maintenance of the equipment intended for them, thus guaranteeing the sustainability of the initiative.

“This project can transform the lives of the people of Kégnéko, and become a model for other rural communities in Guinea,” defends Dr Fofana.

The results of this study constitute a path for the sustainable energy transition of villages supplied capriciously with electricity.

Alpha Oumar Bagou Barry