Renewable Energy in Africa: A Discussion of the Feasibility and Socio-Economic Effects of Solar Photovoltaic(PV) System

The development and expansion of the modern world cannot be separated from the support of electricity. The 'pollution-free' and unlimited renewable energy plays an increasingly important role in the energy supply market. Started with the interpretation of world energy consumption from 2008 to 2017, this paper takes Africa (primarily rural Africa), which has a shallow electricity connection rate, as an example to discuss the feasibility of deploying solar photovoltaic(PV) systems through analyzing its natural resources, government policies, and other factors. It briefly described both off-grid and grid-connected solar PV systems and their possible technical issues. Moreover, the potential socio-economic effects of the deployment of solar PV systems in the region have been predicted. Solar PV systems can solve the power supply issues for the people who live in rural areas with unsound infrastructure. Further research will quantify the benefits and analyze the impact factors to optimize the utility equation.