Towards Future Smart Power Systems with High Penetration of Renewables, Chapter 10: Renewables for isolated and rural areas, the case of Ecuador

This chapter explores rural electrification in Ecuador as a crucial driver for comprehensive and equitable development. Drawing inspiration from global experiences, the chapter emphasizes the transformative potential of electrification beyond a technical challenge, addressing socioeconomic disparities. The shift toward renewable energy sources is examined within the context of global challenges such as climate change, focusing on nuanced impacts on the environment, society, and the economy. Navigating the complexities of rural electrification, lessons from World Bank projects implementing solar home systems are analyzed. Examining 16 projects in remote rural areas identifies internal and external factors influencing success, shedding light on financial, technical, and sociopolitical barriers. The chapter then shifts its focus to Ecuador, analyzing the motivation to investigate rural electrification and its potential socioeconomic impact. To address the existing literature gaps on rural electrification in Ecuador, the chapter reviews various international experiences, emphasizing the need for comprehensive analyses and holistic approaches. The subsequent sections delve into the current state of studies related to electrical power generation, contextualize the energy landscape, analyze trends in the energy sector, assess renewable resource availability, and explore the existing and upcoming renewable energy projects in rural areas. Comparative studies with international experiences are presented, highlighting successful cases such as South Africa’s National Electrification Program and Bangladesh’s hybridized energy system. Additional studies from various countries showcase the feasibility and benefits of hybrid systems, emphasizing economic efficiency, environmental benefits, and the importance of considering local contexts. The chapter reviews the existing studies on rural electrification in Ecuador, identifying gaps and shortcomings. The literature highlights challenges faced by electrification programs, the importance of community participation, and the complexity of estimating energy demand. A critical analysis of the existing programs and proposed models aims to contribute insights for more effective and sustainable policies. In summary, this chapter addresses identified literature gaps by conducting an in-depth study on rural electrification in Ecuador. It offers a comprehensive overview, draws parallels with global experiences, and provides valuable insights to shape effective electrification policies and initiatives in the pursuit of sustainable development.