Assessing the uptake of small-scale photovoltaic electricity production in Argentina: the PERMER project

Supplying electricity to remote rural communities in lesser developed countries (LDCs) is key to improving livelihoods and reducing poverty. Decentralised renewable energy systems such as solar photovoltaic (PV) electricity have the potential to provide a viable and sustainable alternative to overcome the physical and economic barriers facing the expansion of low and medium tension grids. This paper critically assesses the impact of small-scale PV systems installed in homes, schools and public buildings over the last six years under the PERMER project—Renewable Energy Project for the Rural Electricity Market—co-funded by a range of public and private sources. The structure of financial subsidies has enabled these remote rural communities to receive an electricity supply that, in many cases, would otherwise not have been possible. Replacing traditional energy sources such as candles and kerosene lamps, the PV electricity systems are providing better quality light, reducing indoor air pollution levels, as well as a means to power communications technologies and extend hours for cultural and productive activities. There are, however, certain technical, organisational and intellectual barriers that remain to be overcome before the project can be considered to be operating optimally.