ACCESS-SARL - Hybrid System of Solar and Diesel for Rural Electrification in Bancoumana (Mali)

Who, What & Where

• ACCESS-SARL
• Hybrid System of Solar and Diesel for Rural electrification
• Bancoumana, Mali

The Company

ACCESS is a Malian solar and hybrid energy systems company with 10 years of experience in urban and rural electrification sectors.

The Challenge

• 20.000 inhabitants at Bancoumana, no modern energy services available.
• Monthly avg. expenditure for kerosene, candles and batteries was around 25,50 EUR.

Renewable Solution

• Mali solar irradiation - 5-6kWh/m²/day.
• Mini-grid constructed with collaboration of ACCESS, Malian government and KfW.
• Solar hybrid systems:
  • Solar PV field 33 kWc
  • Back-up generator 64 kW
  • Batteries Storage 3640Ah/48V
  • Grid length 10 Km in low voltage

Project Financing and Costs

• Project Investment: 404.068,26 EUR   
• 20% from ACCESS
• 80% of KfW/AMADER (Malian REA) as investment grant.
• Tariff determined by regulator on basis of tools considering the interests of both the operator and the community.
• OPEX covered as each client pays monthly bill of 0,28 EUR/kWh
• ACCESS manages and operates the project.

Project Outcome

• Electricity for 393 households, small business, schools, health centre and street lights.
• Creation of new jobs and activities in the village.

Next Steps

• The densification of the mini-grid, extension of solar capacity and battery storage.

• Improve the clients’ management system by introducing smart meters.

• The Government of Mali, in collaboration with donors, is to replicate the model for 50 more.