Access to energy is a precondition for sustainable economic development and social progress in developing countries. COWI provides world-leading consultancy to facilitate the establishment of well-functioning and efficient power systems. We focus on the entire process from strategic energy sector development plans to implementation of rural electrification schemes.
COWI provides solutions that cover all relevant aspects of rural and peri-urban electrification. This has not to do only with technological issues. It also concerns aspects related to economy, organization, operation and maintenance, training, marketing and social and institutional development. Our solutions are based on experience gained in close cooperation with a large number of power utilities around the world.
Options for rural electrification include grid-connected systems as well as off-grid options based on diesel, solar, wind and biomass generation. Planning involves thorough socio-economic analyses of demand, affordability and acceptability.
One of the great challenges in developing countries is to reduce electrification costs, thereby enhancing rural livelihoods. Our specialists provide concepts of reliable low-cost distribution systems (for instance optimized structural design and SWER (Single Wire Earth Return)).