Fast-Tracking Mini-Grid Development

Reliable and scalable electrification is crucial for Africa’s development and economic growth. Mini-grid infrastructure technology remains the most capital efficient solution to electrify unserved populations in Sub Saharan Africa and has evolved rapidly over the last two decades. This GET.transform Impact Case Study focuses on the African Model Mini-Grid Regulation Tool, a pioneering resource for mini-grid regulation building entrenched in regional and international best practices. The development was driven by the African Forum of Utility Regulators (AFUR) in partnership with GET.transform and African Union Commission (AUC). The process included stakeholder consultations, sector and peer reviews leading to its widespread adoption and institutionalisation by key development partners and organisations.

A Practical Guide to Distributed Generation Frameworks

At its core, the publication introduces a “Trifecta” of regulatory building blocks. It first delves into the regulatory and procedural component which focuses on establishing clear frameworks aligned with national legislation. This includes mechanisms such as net metering or net billing regulations, alongside utility requirements and connection agreements that define application, approval and connection processes. These practical tools ensure transparency in the roles and responsibilities among regulators, utilities, and customers.

Africa’s Power Investment Landscape

At the current pace, Africa is expanding power capacity at only a fraction of what is required. Backed by Power Futures Lab data, this paper demonstrates that renewable IPPs offer the most practical pathway to rapidly scale investment across the continent. Investment trends show that renewable IPPs, especially in solar and wind, are driving the expansion of new generation capacity, particularly when governments and utilities face severe financial constraints.