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Quality performance gaps and minimal electricity losses in East Africa

Author

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  • Gautier, Axel
  • Nsabimana, René
  • Walheer, Barnabé

Abstract

The electricity sector in East Africa is characterized by high levels of electricity losses. The literature has extensively focused on investments and policy reforms that can potentially reduce losses. In this paper, we follow another approach by nonparametrically estimating the minimal losses given the actual inputs, outputs and electricity generation process. Minimal losses are then compared to actual losses to construct quality performance indicators. Using a tailored database for six East African countries over 10 years, we show that electricity losses could be reduced by 8%, representing savings of approximately $60 million per year.

Suggested Citation

  • Gautier, Axel & Nsabimana, René & Walheer, Barnabé, 2023. "Quality performance gaps and minimal electricity losses in East Africa," Utilities Policy, Elsevier, vol. 82(C).
  • Handle: RePEc:eee:juipol:v:82:y:2023:i:c:s095717872300070x
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jup.2023.101558
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Electricity losses; Quality performance gap; East Africa;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C67 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Mathematical Methods; Programming Models; Mathematical and Simulation Modeling - - - Input-Output Models
    • Q40 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Energy - - - General

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