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A Comprehensive Evaluation of Off-Grid Photovoltaic Experiences in Non-Interconnected Zones of Colombia: Integrating a Sustainable Perspective

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  • Andrea A. Eras-Almeida

    (Energy from Women, Calle Asunción Castell 5, 28020 Madrid, Spain, Calle 20 No. 2A-26 Bogotá, Colombia
    Unión Española Fotovoltaica-UNEF, Calle de Velázquez 18, 28001 Madrid, Spain)

  • Tatiana Vásquez-Hernández

    (Energy from Women, Calle Asunción Castell 5, 28020 Madrid, Spain, Calle 20 No. 2A-26 Bogotá, Colombia)

  • Merlyn Johanna Hurtado-Moncada

    (Frontiers of Life and Learning Sciences Department (FDVA), Université Paris Cité, 8 bis Rue Charles V, 75004 Paris, France
    WOMER-Women Measuring the Gender-Climate Nexus, 6 Rue Carnot, 91120 Palaiseau, France)

  • Miguel A. Egido-Aguilera

    (Instituto de Energía Solar, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Av. Complutense 30, 28040 Madrid, Spain)

Abstract

This research presents the findings of an evaluation of off-grid photovoltaic (PV) systems and their sustainability models in Colombia within the “Evaluation of Isolated Photovoltaic Systems and Their Sustainability Models” project supported by the Global Environment Fund (GEF). It involves the analysis of primary and secondary information on the photovoltaic energy projects for rural electrification in this country. Part of the information was obtained through interviews with different stakeholders who work in solar electrification in non-interconnected zones (NIZ), covering rural and island contexts. It was complemented by a comparative analysis of international projects implemented in Latin America. The results are shown as lessons learned, with a SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats) study representing the current situation of rural electrification with PV technology as perceived and describing the opportunities for the improvement of rural electrification strategies based on the successful experiences in the region. This research offers a comprehensive overview of how Colombian electrification could be led to address the last mile gap, integrating a solid sustainable perspective for the long-term view and ensuring community involvement towards a just energy transition. Therefore, this study proposes a series of guidelines to support those public policies that foster access to energy in the rural non-interconnected zones of Colombia.

Suggested Citation

  • Andrea A. Eras-Almeida & Tatiana Vásquez-Hernández & Merlyn Johanna Hurtado-Moncada & Miguel A. Egido-Aguilera, 2023. "A Comprehensive Evaluation of Off-Grid Photovoltaic Experiences in Non-Interconnected Zones of Colombia: Integrating a Sustainable Perspective," Energies, MDPI, vol. 16(5), pages 1-27, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:16:y:2023:i:5:p:2292-:d:1082256
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    2. Leduchowicz-Municio, A. & Juanpera, M. & Domenech, B. & Ferrer-Martí, L. & Udaeta, M.E.M. & Gimenes, A.L.V., 2024. "Field-driven multi-criteria sustainability assessment of last-mile rural electrification in Brazil," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 192(C).

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