Geospatial Analysis and Electrification Investment Scenario Preparation for Yemen
Since the start of the civil war in Yemen, many important infrastructures systems have been damaged. Progress towards universal access to electricity in the country has been hampered. In this project, KTH works to deliver a preliminary assessment of electrification options in Yemen to reach universal access to electricity (in accordance with Sustainable Development Goal 7).
Background
Reliable energy-related data are essential in electrification planning. Information concerning settlements’ size and location, distance from existing and/or planned infrastructure (transmission network, power plants, roads) economic activity, local renewable energy resources etc. can convey useful information and help take the right decision regarding the most effective pathway for electrification. However, it is usually the case that in countries where universal electrification is still to be achieved, such information is scarce and difficult to access. The paucity of such information is one of the reasons hampering energy planning activities and particularly electrification, in currently unserved areas.
This situation is gradually changing with the increasing availability of new data and analytical tools, especially in the field of geospatial analysis. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing techniques are becoming openly available and can now provide a range of location-specific information that has not been previously accessible. These, in combination with new open source modelling tools have set up new ground in the field of electrification planning, accelerating progress against the achievement of SDG7.
Drawing on a set of GIS data (particularly night-time lights) and an open-source electrification model (OnSSET), this project sets out to examine which areas have access to electricity today, and which technology (centralized grid-extension, mini-grids and or stand-alone PV) can provide electricity at the lowest cost in each settlement in the country under different scenarios.
Aim and objectives
The specific project objectives were to:
- Compile and collect input data for a geospatial electrification analysis for Yemen
- Estimate current electricity access levels in Yemen based on night-time lights and power network data
- Develop three electrification scenarios using the Open Source Spatial Electrification Tool (OnSSET)
Project partners
Funding is provided by World Bank/ESMAP.
Timeframe: 2020
Researchers
For further information about this project, please contact Andreas Sahberg .