Modes of Operation of Battery Charging Systems (BCS)

Overview

► Battery Charging Systems (BCS)

Modes of Operation

Private

The optimal model of a BCS is a private entrepreneur that runs the station for his own profit, hereby enabling access to basic electricity services for his surroundings. Depending on the generation technology costs can be estimated to lie at about 1500€ for a system that recharges up to 6 batteries a day (estimates for a PV charging station in Ethiopia: system cost of 1500 € cover the Steca PL 2085 Battery charger and the 510 Wp modules; prices for Germany in early 2009; batteries of 45 Ah capacity). The BCS owner could lease or lend the system from the closest regional energy provider.

Community-based

In the short run, however, the seemingly more realistic option is a community-based approach. Here, the BCS should be situated at or close to a public institution (such as a school or a hospital etc.). This helps in legitimising the acquisition of subsidies for the project in case the community cannot pay for initial investment costs. Additionally, this way costs can be avoided due to already existing buildings that can be used for the BCS.

In this model, most likely, a community committee would be established that oversees the implementation and performance of the project.

Further Information

• Battery Charging Systems (BCS)