Investigation into applicability of existing renewable energy technologies and possible efficiency increase case study: Rwanda
Date
2011-07-21
Authors
Cyulinyana, Marie Chantal
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Abstract
This thesis is in two parts. In part I, we discuss how the investigation into existing renewable energy contributes to a solution to the energy deficit, especially in African rural areas where many people do not have access to the national grid. In this part, we surveyed some aspects of those existing technologies.
In part II, we studied a solar thermal technology called a solar trough plant, for which we have looked at a receiver in order to improve its efficiency by comparing two different surface coatings: a selective coating coated on the outside of the receiver pipe and a hot mirror coating coated on the inside of a glass cover. Our theoretical study showed that a hybrid system performs better than either a system with only selective coating or a hot mirror.
Concerning a better technology to use in Rwanda, we conclude that solar energy technology (due to good insolation: 5.2 kWh.m-2.day-1) is a strong candidate, in addition to hydro-power which has been the primary source of our electricity. Biomass is an alternative option especially in rural areas.