Analysis of technical losses in distribution networks of large cities in underdeveloped African countries. (case of the City of Kinshasa / Dem. Rep. of Congo)

Abstract

The city of Kinshasa, capital city of the Democratic Republic of Congo, receives its electric power supply from the National Electricity Society (SNEL). The structure of Kinshasa's distribution network was inherited from its colonial period. Secondary network systems were incorporated into the main system after they emerged from new towns and villages as a consequence of the population explosion brought about by the massive rural exodus after the independence. Besides the increase in population, there was also a period of significant economic growth in the 60's and the 70's, which entailed the establishment of a large number of electricity consuming companies. Kinshasa's distribution system suffers major losses. These losses are due to the lack of electric meters, thefts, frauds, etc. The growth in the number of consumers, the irregular supply, voltage fluctuations, the difficulties in reaching new towns and villages, interruptions in the supply and the saturation of the main supply are the main causes for the unfortunate state of Kinshasa's electrical power distribution system. Several lines of action ought to be followed to reduce both technical losses and power failures, as well as to ensure a proper electrical power supply. After analysing Kinshasa's distribution system, it has been observed that power failures and technical losses at certain points have exceeded the rates contemplated by current regulations. The study made on the distribution system has solved the problems of power failure and losses by applying models to predict the overall distribution system situation, and by obtaining more appropriate models for their application to distribution systems similar to that of Kinshasa. These applied and improved models are based on the measures taken at certain points, which in turn determined the overall network situation. These same steps could be taken for the distribution systems in large cities of underdeveloped African countries suffering from the same problem, with a view to reducing technical losses and improving the quality of the electrical power supply