For millions of people worldwide, access to reliable electricity remains a distant reality. Off-grid solar mini-grids are a transformative solution, bringing clean, scalable, and affordable power to communities far from the main grid. These systems are no longer simple power sources; they are intelligent, distributed energy platforms that can support economic growth, improve quality of life, and drive local development. The design of these modern mini-grids requires a holistic approach that blends technical engineering with financial viability and social impact, ensuring a sustainable and long-term energy solution for underserved populations.

This program provides a comprehensive and practical deep dive into the principles and techniques for designing, developing, and operating innovative off-grid solar mini-grids. Participants will gain a fundamental understanding of everything from conducting a demand assessment and sizing a system to financial modeling and the integration of productive-use appliances. The course covers the full lifecycle of a mini-grid project, from initial community engagement to long-term operations and management. By focusing on real-world case studies and hands-on exercises, attendees will be equipped to build and scale mini-grid projects that are not only technically sound but also economically and socially sustainable.

Duration: 10 days

Target Audience:

• Renewable Energy Engineers
• Project Managers and Developers
• Rural Electrification Specialists
• Energy Entrepreneurs
• Government and Policy Officials
• Microfinance and Development Professionals
• Consultants in the Energy Sector
• Technology and Innovation Leaders
• NGO and Community Development Staff
• Students in Engineering and Energy

Objectives:

• Master the core principles of off-grid solar mini-grid design.
• Learn how to conduct a comprehensive energy demand assessment.
• Understand the key components of an off-grid solar system.
• Grasp the complexities of system sizing for reliability and cost-effectiveness.
• Develop proficiency in financial modeling for mini-grid projects.
• Explore best practices for integrating energy storage and smart metering.
• Learn about robust approaches to community engagement and business model development.
• Identify the critical legal, regulatory, and policy frameworks.
• Develop skills in using data for system monitoring and optimization.
• Formulate strategies for a sustainable and scalable mini-grid business.

Course Modules:

Module 1: The Mini-Grid Ecosystem

• The global challenge of energy access
• The role of off-grid solutions
• The difference between a mini-grid and a micro-grid
• The key stakeholders in a mini-grid project
• The value chain of a mini-grid

Module 2: Site Assessment and Feasibility

• The importance of a thorough site visit
• Assessing solar resource and local climate
• Conducting a socioeconomic and demographic survey
• The role of a clear and focused research question
• The importance of a "risk and mitigation" plan

Module 3: Demand Assessment and Forecasting

• Methodologies for household energy demand assessment
• The importance of a simple scorecard and a dashboard
• Identifying productive-use loads (e.g., mills, welders)
• Forecasting future energy demand
• The importance of a "data story map"

Module 4: System Sizing and Design

• Sizing the solar PV array
• Sizing the battery energy storage system
• The role of an inverter and a charge controller
• The importance of a clear and consistent reporting style
• Balancing system reliability with cost

Module 5: Mini-Grid Components

• The components of a modern mini-grid
• Solar PV modules and mounting structures
• Battery technologies (e.g., LFP, lead-acid)
• The role of a program's theory of change
• The distribution network and wiring

Module 6: Financial Modeling & Business Models

• The principles of mini-grid financial modeling
• The role of a "stakeholder analysis"
• Tariffs, pricing, and revenue collection
• Different business models (e.g., anchor tenants, productive-use)
• The importance of a clear and compelling KPI

Module 7: Community Engagement & Ownership

• The importance of a community-centric approach
• Building trust and managing expectations
• The role of local leadership
• The importance of a "risk and mitigation" plan
• The role of a simple scorecard and a dashboard

Module 8: Productive Use & Economic Development

• The concept of productive-use appliances
• The importance of a "data story map"
• Identifying and supporting local entrepreneurs
• The role of a program's theory of change
• The link between energy access and poverty reduction

Module 9: Smart Metering & Billing Systems

• The role of smart meters in mini-grids
• Pre-paid vs. post-paid systems
• The use of Mobile Money and other payment platforms
• The importance of a "stakeholder analysis"
• Data management and security

Module 10: Operations and Maintenance (O&M)

• The importance of a robust O&M plan
• Remote monitoring and diagnostics
• The role of a "clear and compelling KPI"
• Training local technicians for maintenance
• The lifecycle of mini-grid components

Module 11: Integration with Other Solutions

• Hybridizing a mini-grid with a diesel generator
• The role of a mini-grid in a multi-tier energy access strategy
• The potential for grid extension
• The importance of a "simple scorecard and a dashboard"
• The future of integrated solutions

Module 12: Policy and Regulation

• The role of supportive government policy
• The importance of a "clear and consistent reporting style"
• Regulatory frameworks for mini-grids
• The role of a "risk and mitigation" plan
• The importance of a clear and focused research question

Module 13: Project Management & Implementation

• The project lifecycle of a mini-grid
• Managing a team and a budget
• The importance of a "data story map"
• Sourcing components and managing logistics
• The role of a "program's theory of change"

Module 14: Funding and Financing

• The funding landscape for mini-grids
• The role of a "stakeholder analysis"
• Different financing structures (e.g., grants, debt, equity)
• The importance of a clear and compelling KPI
• The role of carbon finance and other innovative models

Module 15: Case Studies

• Case study: A successful mini-grid project
• Case study: A project that failed and the lessons learned
• Case study: A mini-grid supporting a productive-use hub
• Lessons from around the world
• The role of a "clear and focused research question"

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 10 working days before commencement of the training.