Assessment of Forestry Residues Potential for Off-Grid Electrification in The Republic of Benin (West Africa)

Abstract

This study assessed the potential of forestry residues for off-grid electrification in the Republic of Benin while accounting for the spatial variation of residues potential and their use impact on local biodiversity. We found significant spatial variation of residues potential, with a much higher surplus residues in the north (3,599.05 tons/year) compared to the south (457.79 tons/year). This discrepancy might result from the spatial difference in geographical variables across the two regions. A maximum electricity potential of 100,259,786 kWh can be generated from the theoretical potential of residues which falls short of satisfying the estimated national off-grid electricity demand of 443,916,975 kWh. The research also highlighted the positive influence of wood processing technology and diversity of processed wood species on residues potential. The two variables may be targeted by policymakers to tailor actions for enhancing local transition towards renewable energy. Using scenarios-based projections, our study prompt the conclusion that forestry residues can be used sustainably for off-grid electrification with a minimal impact on biodiversity. Combining the surplus residues from wood processing industries with energy plantations may optimize forestry residues mobilization for off-grid electrification.
 Keywords: wood residues, biomass-electricity, off-grid power, sustainability