Level of energy source utilization in the ABATA group

Figure 1Figure 1 shows that four energy sources are used in the ABATA community. Solar panels appear to be used sparingly (8%) compared to batteries, which are used extensively (44%), but their use is very limited and their cost is relatively high compared to that of solar panels. Generators and batteries, estimated at 36% and 12% respectively, are also gaining popularity at the expense of photovoltaic systems. However, according to information gathered in the field, batteries are recharged either by generators, by mains electricity, or by solar panels.

Figure 1. Level of solar panel (photovoltaic system) use compared to other energy sources.

These results demonstrate that the use of photovoltaic systems remains quite low and that no measures are being taken to promote their use.

It is clear that of the four types of energy sources identified in the field, only two types—generators and solar panels—are capable of providing significant benefits compared to the others. Batteries are generally used only for applications with very limited impact. In order to amplify socio-economic and even cultural activities and consolidate development efforts in the area, it is more than essential to primarily use those that provide great services at lower costs.

Reasons for using energysources

The results in Figure 2Figure 2 indicate that respondents cited four reasons for choosing this energy source: lower cost (36%), availability (28%), personal preference (20%), and anticipated benefits (16%). However, a more thorough analysis suggests that the primary reason given for using photovoltaic systems is less compelling, as they are perceived as not sufficiently advantageous compared to other adopted systems. While the cost of supplying photovoltaic systems may be relatively higher than some others, their advantages are significant and outweigh the investment.

Difficulties encountered in accessing the energy sourcesused

Regarding the drawbacks and difficulties in accessing and/or using the energy sources under study, the information gathered from the survey participants revealed the following:

Legend: Batteries; 2: Generator; 3: Battery; 4: Solar panel.

Figure 2. Reasons for using the energy sources used.

Batteries degrade rapidly, causing the torch springs to rust and damage them quickly. This is costly;Solar panels only function optimally during periods of drought due to the increased sunlight. Their supply cost is high, and their installation and even maintenance require training and instruction;Without electricity or generators, batteries are not usable. All the energy sources they rely on incur regular and transactional costs. Furthermore, they degrade rapidly;Finally, generators are generally prone to equipment degradation and malfunctions. Repairs require significant financial investment and the necessary technical expertise.

Operating time of energy sourcesused

Table 1.Minimum operating time of the energy sources used.

Table 1 clearly shows that only batteries and generators are recognized as energy sources capable of lasting for approximately two weeks. Admittedly, their percentage is small. This indicates a problem with raising awareness of the scope and merits of photovoltaic systems within the ABATA group, hindering their effective adoption.

Estimate of monthly expensesincurred

Legend: Fc: Congolese francs.

Figure 3. Advice on monthly expenses incurred for energy sources used.

Figure 3Figure 3 clearly shows that generators are the most expensive energy source used in the region (39,000 FC monthly), followed by batteries and cells, whose costs are estimated at 10,000 FC and 4,000 FC per month, respectively. Solar panels, on the other hand, are used without any monthly expenses, except for those incurred for their supply or potential costs in case of a breakdown.

Level of knowledge about solar panels among respondents

Table 2.Opinions on solar panel knowledge.

Table 2 shows that 64% of the respondents have no knowledge of photovoltaic systems. This lack of knowledge shapes the level of adoption of this new energy source, which is particularly popular in regions without access to electricity.

Opinions on the advantages of the energy sourcesused

The information provided in Figure 4Figure 4 above indicates that solar panels remain the most advantageous, despite not being widely used. Batteries follow in terms of percentage, followed by the other two sources, namely generators and batteries.

Based on the information provided by the respondents, the advantages of photovoltaic systems include free sunlight, the considerable number of devices that can be charged (phones, batteries, radios, flashlights, etc.), and the conversion of solar energy into electrical energy. For batteries, prices are relatively affordable and they are readily available throughout the region, both during the rainy season and the dry season. The durability of the batteries has been noted, while the reliable output and warranty of the generators have also been highlighted.

Figure 4. Opinions on the most advantageous energy source compared to other sources.

Figure 5. Impact of solar panels.

Figure 5Figure 5 shows that 76% of respondents have a positive opinion on the contribution of this energy source to the socio-economic life of the community, compared to 24% who have the opposite opinion. It should be understood that these opinions are based on the limited or inconsistent information available to the local population, without any formal awareness campaigns. Although the photovoltaic system is not yet widely used in the study area, its positive impact on the socio-economic life of the community is recognized.