The Need for Research Regarding Benefits of Integrating Thermal Energy Storage Batteries in Rural Mini-Grid Electric Systems

This paper concludes that the electricity cost reduction benefit could be increased by addition of Thermal Energy Storage (TES) using battery refrigeration anchor customers and a Modularity Grid digital platform. A Modularity Grid platform uses artificial intelligence and block chain to optimize distribution of mini-grid electricity distribution to households, commercial customers, anchor loads and battery charging. The Modularity Grid technology, is being piloted in Uganda. Research is warranted to determine if the potential for reducing electricity cost exists. This research is warranted given that: • Current literature discussing mini-grid planning and management of mini-grid electricity distribution in developing countries focuses on the cost reducing benefits of integrating conventional commercial anchor loads generally requiring continuous, reliable electricity supply. • TES batteries have demonstrated commercial viability when charged with intermittent electricity generated from solar and wind generation often used as a source of mini-grid electricity supply. • As discussed below, TES battery/refrigeration anchor loads combined with Modularity Grid could add economies of scale while reducing mini-grid electricity cost below mini-grids with conventional anchor loads - thus increasing the economic viability of mini-grids serving households as well as commercial refrigeration in developing countries • There is a significant need for additional commercial refrigeration in rural locations in developing countries to reduce food loss, increase agricultural productivity and provide refrigeration for health clinics.