Myanmar microgrid test bench

Can microgrids be used in rural electrification in Myanmar?

In Myanmar, SHSs were deployed in off-grid areas by the government (Greacen, 2015; Sovacool, 2013). In the current study, we focused on microgrids, which have a distributed power source and supply electricity to households. In the context of rural electrification in Myanmar, we use microgrids to mean only the isolated system from the main grid.

Are hybrid microgrid systems economically efficient in Myanmar?

Moreover, simulations by HOMER are carried out to demonstrate the ideal economically efficient microgrid system for each district of Myanmar in different time periods. Results show hybrid microgrid systems, including SDMG and SBMG system, are more competitive than other solutions.

Which micro-grid has the lowest unit price of power in Myanmar?

Previous studies about the economic assessment of micro-grid in Myanmar suggest that hydro features the lowest unit price of power .

Which regions in Myanmar have biomass potential for microgrid projects?

According to the quantities of rice mills in Myanmar, four regions, Sagaing, Bago, Yangon, and Ayeyawady are assumed to have biomass potential for microgrid projects . Additionally, Myanmar has a number of rivers and streams, which makes hydro a suitable resource for power generation in those areas with rivers and streams.

How does the main grid work in Myanmar?

Main grid extension often prioritises urban or peri-urban areas, where demand is higher, while sparse rural areas are seen as less of a priority. In addition, electricity tariffs on the main grid in Myanmar are subsidised and kept very low. The tariff for the residential sector is 35–50 MK/kWh (0.026–0.036 US$/kWh)2.

Will Myanmar increase the main-grid tariff?

The government plans to increase the main-grid tariff, but Frontier Myanmar Research (2017) reported a delay in these plans in November 2017. The tariff gap expands the inequality between grid-connected urban and microgrid rural areas (Dapice, 2014).