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Powering Health

Electrification Options for Developing Country Health Facilities

Technology Factors to Consider

Here is an illustration of key characteristics of energy generation technologies, and an illustration of the estimated cost of various energy technologies for a range of clinic sizes. Capital cost, operating cost, reliability, emissions, resource availability, and other factors should be considered when selecting an energy technology.

Key Characteristics and Costs of Energy Generation Technologies
Energy
Technologies		 Capital
Cost		 O&M
Cost		 Reliability Durability Special
Considerations		 Emissions Optimal Use
Solar Photovoltaic (PV) System with Batteries Very high Low High (if maintained properly) or low (if not) 20-30 years (PV) 5 years (batteries) Theft (batteries or panels); Vandalism (panels); Availability of trained technicians None Small loads; Areas where fuel is costly or difficult to obtain
Wind Turbine with Batteries High Low- moderate High (if maintained properly) or low (if not) 20 years (turbine);
10 years (blades);
5 years (batteries)		 Theft (batteries); Lack of data on wind resources None Many moderate loads where resource is sufficient
Recipro- cating Engines Diesel Generator Moderate- high High High 25,000 operating hours Fuel spills; Emissions Very high Larger loads
Gasoline Generator Low Very high Moderate 1,000-2,000 operating hours Fuel spills; Emissions; Flammability High Emergency generator
Gas Generator Moderate High Moderate 3,000 operating hours Propane is of limited availability, but can use biogas Low Component in hybrid system or stand-alone
Hybrid System Very high Low- moderate Very high Varies; Optimization greatly extends generator and battery life Complexity for servicing Low Medium and larger loads
Grid Extension Varies None Varies High Theft; Extending grid allows connection of nearby homes to grid Not local Where grid is reliable and not too distant