The role of solar photovoltaic (pv) system technology for sustainable energy use: a case study of Mkuranga District, Pwani (coast) region in Tanzania

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Date
2012-09
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Kampala International University, School of Engineering and Applied Science
Abstract
The study looked at the feasibility of adopting renewable energy technology such as Solar PV system in rural household and the role of such technology on sustainable energy use in Mkranga district Tanzania. The objectives of the study were to determine the availability and affordability of Solar PV system in Mkuranga district, to identify the uses of Solar PV system technology and its advantages over available energy sources in Mkuranga district and lastly to find out the constricting factors in the accessibility of the Solar PV in Micuranga district. The study was carried out in three (3) villages namely Mkuranga centre, Mwanambaya and Vikindu of Mkuranga district from March 2012 to September 2012. Literature materials were sourced from different sources. The literature include information pertaining the availability and affordability of Solar PV, the uses of Solar PV and its advantages over other energy sources and lastly the factors which hinders the accessibility of Solar PV in rural households. The study involved a total of 100 respondents. Simple random sampling and puiposive sampling were used to select the respondents. Questionnaire, interview guide and group discussion were used to collect data during the study. The results from this study indicate that 100% of interviewed households in Mkuranga district are using biomass fuel as source of energy for heating and cooking. Other sources of energy found were grid electricity, petroleum and other sources such as dry cells. Solar PV was found to be used only by 17% of interviewed household in Mlcuranga district. Solar PV was seen to be used as source of energy to power up appliances such as radio, TV, battery charging and lighting. The reason behind such lower percentage of Solar PV usage was that some villages like Mkuranga centre was connected to grid electricity and that most of their household energy needs are met by grid electricity. Another being lack of information on the cost of Solar PV systems and the technology itself Generally, the study concludes that, to promote short terms plans for grid electricity in rural areas may prove costly, emphasis should be on promotion of affordable and environmentally friendly RETs such as Solar PV technology. The supply of RETs such as Solar PV in rural areas will play a crucial role in raising the living standards of rural population. It also argues that dissemination of renewable energy in rural areas has a potential to protect the environment and may contribute to sustainable development in rural areas.
Description
A dissertation submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of the Bachelor of Science Degree in Environmental Management of Kampala International University
Keywords
Solar photovoltaic, sustainable energy, Mkuranga District
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