Developing countries urged to pursue small wind energy solutions

Decision makers in developing countries responsible for energy are being called upon to foster small wind solutions to address energy needs in these countries.

The Alliance for Rural Electrification (ARE) which describes itself as the only international business association in the world focusing on the promotion and the development of small scale renewable energy solutions for rural electrification in developing countries, has launched the ‘Small Wind Campaign’, which aims to eliminate the bottlenecks and misconceptions that have been preventing decision-makers in developing countries to integrate this technology in their energy choices for rural communities, even when they are one the most cost-effective solutions.

Commenting, Simon Rolland, ARE’s Secretary General said, “under favorable natural conditions, small and medium wind generation prices are significantly lower than those of conventional energy sources, such as diesel and kerosene,” adding, “also, over their life-time, prices can even be lower than for other types of renewable energy solutions. Yet, decision-makers still neglect these technologies.”

The ARE says during the Campaign, which will last for one year, it will approach energy sector decision-makers in developing countries through several workshops, webinars and one-on-one meetings to assess their country’s or community’s energy needs, fill information gaps and share best-practices on small wind development.

Meanwhile, the Alliance has published a position paper which includes case studies from China, Indonesia, Madagascar and Namibia.

“The most common bottlenecks are also addressed, such as the lack of feasibility studies and assessment of wind speed data, the lack of quality standards and certifications, and insufficient financing mechanisms,” it says.

By Emmanuel K. Dogbevi