28 August, 2025 Member article

Energy storage solution adaptability for rural-remote areas

When we look back at humanity’s history, in the early 19th century, people worldwide still used traditional means (candles, oil lamps…) to illuminate their homes. It was not until 1878 that Thomas Edison installed the first private electric system in his own residence, paving the way for the electrical revolution.

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In 2022, over 90% of the world had access to electricity, and for many people from the United States, Europe, and Australia… It was unimaginable to live without electricity (the latest blackouts that happened in Spain, Portugal and the Czech Republic have shown our level of dependency). Nevertheless, some people are surprised when they find out that 685 million people worldwide are still in need of electricity access (600 million of them in developing countries). But that is not all, because Sub-Saharan Africa accounts for 86% of people (588 million) without electricity worldwide, and 80% of them (473 million) live in rural/remote areas.

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These Sub-Saharan regions face many challenges due to geographic isolation from power grids and infrastructure limitations, forcing them to depend on fossil fuel energy generation. Diesel generators are widely used because of their robustness and reliability (stable energy output). Despite this, diesel generators produce too much noise/greenhouse emissions, plus fuel purchase might not always be possible.

Here is where renewable energy technologies come into play, a better and more sustainable alternative. But they also have some disadvantages because this type of energy production is limited to specific periods of the day and is directly dependent on the weather (sun, wind, etc.). To minimise this reliance and be able to use electricity at any time of the day, the use of a BESS (Battery Energy Storage Systems) is essential.

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While an initial investment is needed for a BESS solution, they are becoming more efficient and cheaper by the day. In addition, the variety and adaptability improvements BESS have undergone these past years have been incredible: Serialisable/Parallelisable battery modules, 19” rack battery modules, battery modules with liquid cooling systems, “plug & play” cabinets with integrated inverters, containers with battery modules/inverters plus integrated safety systems… It does not matter whether the BESS must be stored indoors/outdoors, withstand high temperatures or work in complex environments; BESS will supply these rural/remote areas with a reliable/adaptable solution and a stable power source that will boost their economic and social development.

Written by:

Cegasa Energia S.L.U