Contribution of the mix renewable energy potentials in delivering parts of the electric energy needs in the west region of Cameroon

Abstract

The constant supply of energy remains a great challenge in many developing countries and Cameroon is no exception. It is necessary to explore other renewable energy sources that have environmental and energy potential. However, there is limited and sparse literature on the potential of renewable energy sources in Cameroon and its western part in particular. This limits investment and policy design that can lead to the exploitation of renewable energy sources. There is thus a need for more research on renewable energy development to better inform energy policies. This paper investigates the potential and extent to which available renewable energy sources can contribute to the electric power sector in the western part of Cameroon is on estimating the potential of hydroelectric, solar and biomass energy resources. A cross-sectional method, observations and literature review were used to determine the water flow and electrical energy potential of different biomass. The results show that the electrical potential of hydroelectricity is 11.68 GWh/year, for solar represents 44.12 GWh/year, and the energy of biomass 8586.42 GWh/year, 135.53 GWh/year and 13.05 GWh/year for agricultural, animal and forestry residues; they have a rate of access to electricity of 6.64%, 25.08%, 4881.46%, 77.05%, and 7.42% respectively. This potential can satisfy needs of 18 526 464 households. According to results obtained and in order to provide a sustainable solution by improving access to electricity, living standards and socio-economic conditions of populations; two hybrid cogeneration thermal-solar power plants can be installed at the limits of the decentralized areas of Bamboutos-Mifi-Menoua and Koung Khi, which are nearby areas with high population density. Hydroelectric plants can be installed to electrify villages that are far from the national network.