The Service Value Method for Design of Energy Access Systems in the Global South

Anna Clements,Scot Wheeler,Alison Mohr,Malcolm Mcculloch

doi:10.1109/jproc.2019.2901215

Anna Clements, Scot Wheeler + Show 2 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1109/jproc.2019.2901215

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Abstract

This paper presents the service value method (SVM) as a novel means to gather and interpret end-user needs, aspirations, and contextual factors to improve engineering design practice of energy access systems for the Global South. The method adopts a service-oriented approach and consists of a rapid and effective field exercise to gather qualitative and quantitative data from end users in focus groups. This exercise is suitable for enabling end-user participation in Global South contexts. The data are interpreted as service maps that capture end-user preferences to inform tradeoffs of different design criteria, guiding the preliminary design of the energy system. The method ensures end-user needs and contexts are integrated into the design process early on. A case study is presented, where the SVM was used to design solar nanogrids in Kenya and Bangladesh.

Highlights

T O improve the usefulness and successful implementation of energy access systems for the rural Global South, end-user needs, aspirations and wider contextual factors must be identified and included in the design process
NTEB was relevant because one of the key project objectives was to provide electricity access to enable income generation, and it aligned with a strong theme that emerged from the discussion step of the Service Value Test (SVT)
The Service Value Method addresses how to gather and interpret end-user needs and aspirations, and integrate them into contextual factors to improve the design process of energy access systems for the Global South. It advances the use and integration of social science data-gathering methodologies in engineering design practice to enhance design outcomes. This is important for the Global South, where innovation and adaptation of off-grid energy systems for particular settings is required

Summary

Introduction

T O improve the usefulness and successful implementation of energy access systems for the rural Global South, end-user needs, aspirations and wider contextual factors must be identified and included in the design process. There is a need for quantitative and qualitative tools and techniques to enable engineers to take account of end-user needs and contextual factors and to integrate this into their design process [1], [2]. This paper proposes such a method that is appropriate for use in Global South contexts. To avoid negative impacts on climate change through use of fossil fuels, there is a need for renewable energy systems in the Global South to contribute to reduction of poverty and betterment of lives

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