Hawassa University Hosts Closing Workshop on REMCE Project.

Faculty of Electrical Engineering at Hawassa University, in collaboration with Aalborg University, Denmark, conducted a closing workshop for the Renewable Energy-Based Minigrid Clusters in Ethiopia (REMCE) Project, December 20, 2024 at Rori Hotel.

Dr. Ing. Fasika Bete, Scientific Director of Institute of Technology at HU, stated in his opening speech that the REMCE project has addressed the challenges of scaling up renewable energy-based minigrids while improving access to electricity among rural Ethiopian communities. He noted that the project collected and analysed data over three years to identify optimal locations and configurations for minigrid clusters.

Ing. Yeshitila Hailu, Principal Investigator of the Project, elaborated on the research objectives and outcomes. He explained that Ethiopia's reliance on hydroelectric power often results in frequent outages, necessitating diversified energy sources, and the project proposed renewable energy-based minigrid clusters with storage systems to enhance reliability and affordability of electricity. Collaborating with EEP, EEU, and MWIE, the team identified suitable sites in Gamo Gofa, forming two microgrid clusters, each with three microgrids.
He pointed out that the project has evaluated the techno-economic feasibility of the clusters, optimized minigrid sizes, and developed low-cost, reliable communication and control frameworks. Moreover, real-time simulations were conducted to assess overall performance and seven research articles were published in partnership with Aalborg University, and efforts are underway with the Ministry of Water, Irrigation and Energy to secure funding for implementation.

Researchers presented findings and discussed project results and achievements, followed by participant feedback and recommendations on the way forward.