RENEWAB IES IN ASIA A Regional R Programme

Funded by the S ion Agency (Sida)

Bangladesh InstiKhulna – 9203, B Center for Mass Dhaka – 1209, B Grameen ShaktiDhaka - 1216, B

LE ENERGY TECHNOLOGesearch and Dissemination

Phase II

wedish International Development Cooperat

of ts in Bangladesh

A SummaryActivities and Achievemen

i

tute of Technology angladesh

Education in Science angladesh

, angladesh

Energy Field of StudyAsian Institute of Technology

P.O. Box 4, Klong LuangPathumthani 12120

Thailand

ii

iii

RENEWABLE ENERGY TECHNOLOGIES IN ASIA

A Regional Research and Dissemination Programme

Phase II

Funded by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida)

A Summary of Activities and Achievements in Bangladesh

Bangladesh Institute of Technology Khulna – 9203, Bangladesh Center for Mass Education in Science Dhaka – 1209, Bangladesh Grameen Shakti, Dhaka - 1216, Bangladesh

Energy Field of Study

Asian Institute of Technology P.O. Box 4, Klong Luang

Pathumthani 12120 Thailand

iv

RENEWABLE ENERGY TECHNOLOGIES IN ASIA A Regional Research and Dissemination Programme Phase II A Summary of Activities and Achievements in Bangladesh PUBLISHED BY

Regional Energy Resources Information Center (RERIC) Asian Institute of Technology P.O. Box 4, Klong Luang Pathumthani 12120 Thailand E-mail: enreric@ait.ac.th Website: http://www.serd.ait.ac.th/reric/ ISBN 974-241-701-6 Copyright © 2002. Regional Energy Resources Information Center (RERIC), Asian Institute of Technology. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced by any means, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the written permission of the publisher. Printed in Thailand Neither the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida) nor the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) makes any warranty, expressed or implied, or assumes any legal liability for the accuracy or completeness of any information herein provided. References herein to any apparatus, product, trademark or manufacturer does not constitute or imply its endorsement, recommendation or favouring by Sida or AIT.

i

The total energy consumption in the world has been growing at an average rate of two percent annually for nearly two centuries. Similar growth is expected to continue in the future. Conventional energy sources such as coal, oil, natural gas, nuclear and hydropower account for 85% of the global primary energy consumption. The share of fossil fuels in the total supply of conventional energy is about 90%. It is increasingly becoming evident that current pattern of rising conventional energy consumption cannot be sustained in the future due to two reasons: the environmental consequences of heavy dependence of fossil fuels and the depletion of fossil fuels. In recent years, global warming has emerged as the most serious environmental threat ever faced by mankind. Urban air pollution and acid rains are also major problems associated with the use of fossil fuels. Therefore, at present, a near consensus appears to be emerging that renewable energy technologies need to be promoted if global energy supplies are to be placed on an environmentally sustainable path. Despite the efforts of various government institutions, universities, NGOs and international development organizations, renewable energy technologies are yet to make a substantial contribution for betterment of the quality of life in the developing countries. To find a wider acceptance, it is very important to make sure that renewable energy solutions are accessible, affordable and appropriate. Research and development institutions in developing countries have a vital role in the development, local adaptation and promotion of renewable energy technologies. These institutions have much to gain from regional networking with similar institutions in other countries through sharing experience and joint coordinated research. In this background, the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida) sponsored a regional programme entitled “Renewable Energy Technologies in Asia: A Regional Research and Dissemination Programme (RETs in Asia)”. The programme was coordinated by the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) and involved a number of national research institutes from six Asian countries: Bangladesh, Cambodia, Lao PDR, Nepal, Philippines and Vietnam. It promoted three technologies: solar photovoltaics, solar drying and biomass briquetting. The objective of this booklet is to present a brief account of the activities carried out in Bangladesh within the framework of the second phase of the RETs in Asia programme.

Prof. S.C. Bhattacharya December 2002 RETs in Asia Coordinator

Preface

Project Team

RETs in Asia

ii

Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida) Dr. M. R. Bhagavan – Senior Research Fellow (from 1997 to 2000) Dr. Gity Behravan – Senior Research Advisor (since 2001)

Programme Coordinator Prof. S.C. Bhattacharya – Energy Program, AIT

Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) Prof. S.C. Bhattacharya – Energy Program, AIT Dr. S. Kumar – Energy Program, AIT

Bangladesh Mr. Dipal Chandra Barua – Grameen Shakti (GS) Prof. Muhammad Ibrahim – Center for Mass Education in Science (CMES) Prof. Md. Nawsher Ali Moral – Bangladesh Institute of Technology, Khulna (BIT)

Cambodia Dr. Sat Samy – Ministry of Industry, Mines and Energy (MIME) Mrs. Phoeurng Sackona – Cambodia Institute of Technology (ITC)

Lao PDR Dr. Phouvong Sayalath – Science, Technology and Environment Agency (STEA)

Nepal Mr. Rajendra Bahadur Adhikari – Center for Renewable Energy (CRE) Prof. Mohan Bikram Gewali – Research Center for Applied Science and Technology (RECAST) Mr. Gyani Ratna Shakya – Royal Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (RONAST)

Philippines Prof. Rowaldo R. del Mundo – University of the Philippines, Diliman Dr. Arnold Elepano – University of the Philippines, Los Baños

Vietnam Dr. Pham Khanh Toan – Institute of Energy (IE) Mr. Trinh Quang Dung – Solar Laboratory (SolarLab)

iii

Abbreviations ................................................................................................ iv 1. Bangladesh Energy Overview Country Background .............................................................................1 Energy Resources and Consumption ....................................................1 Renewable Energy: Potential and Deployment .....................................2 2. Renewable Energy Technologies in Asia: A Regional Research and

Dissemination Programme Introduction ...........................................................................................5 Technologies Promoted under the RETs in Asia Programme ...............6 RETs in Asia Activities...........................................................................6 Participating Institutions.........................................................................7 3. Photovoltaic Programme PV Rural Electrification Solution ...........................................................9 Assessment of Needs..........................................................................10 Local Technological Solutions through Adaptive Research.................11 Demonstration, Monitoring and Dissemination ...................................12 Training and Capacity Building ............................................................14 Financial and Sustainability Issues......................................................15 4. Biomass Briquetting Programme Biomass Briquettes as Fuel .................................................................17 Briquetting Technology in Bangladesh ................................................17 Technology Improvement through Adaptive Research........................18 Capacity Building, Technology Transfer and Training .........................21 Dissemination and Demonstration.......................................................21 5. Retrospection ......................................................................................23 References...................................................................................................26 Glossary of Terms........................................................................................27

Contents

iv

BAEC – Bangladesh Atomic Energy Center BCAS – Bangladesh Center for Advanced Studies BCS – Battery Charging Station BCSIR – Bangladesh Center for Scientific and Industrial Research BIT – Bangladesh Institute of Technology BPDB – Bangladesh Power Development Board BRAC – Bangladesh Rural Advancement Committee BRRI – Bangladesh Rice Research Institute CMES – Center for Mass Education in Science CRE – Center for Renewable Energy GS – Grameen Shakti GTZ – German Agency for Technical Cooperation IE – Institute of Energy IFRD – Institute of Fuel Research and Development IFST – Institute of Food Science and Technology ITC – Cambodia Institute of Technology LGED – Local Government and Engineering Department MIME – Ministry of Industry, Mines and Energy NRI – National Research Institution PV – Photovoltaic REB – Rural Electrification Board RECAST – Research Center for Applied Science and Technology RONAST – Royal Nepal Academy of Science and Technology SHS – Solar Home System SolarLab – Solar Laboratory of Institute of Physics, Ho Chi Minh City STEA – Science, Technology and Environment Agency UPD – University of the Philippines, Diliman UPLB – University of the Philippines, Los Baños WEC – World Energy Council

Abbreviations

ergy Overview

1. Bangladesh En

1

Country Background Bangladesh is one of the world's most densely populated countries with 79% of the population living in rural areas. The primarily agricultural economy of Bangladesh has recorded around 5% annual growth rate over the last few years (ADB, 2001). The main crops grown in the country are rice and jute.

Energy Resources and Consumption The main energy sources of Bangladesh are biomass and natural gas. Biomass energy sources are traditionally used for domestic cooking and in small rural industries. Biomass fuels are estimated to account for about 73% of the country's primary energy supply (World Bank, 1998). Bangladesh has proved natural gas reserves of 301 billion m3 that would last for 32 years at the current rate of production. The remainder of energy supply is from oil, mostly imported, and limited amount of hydropower. Bangladesh has an installed electric generating capacity of 4,005 MW, of which 94% is thermal, mainly natural-gas-fired (BPDB, 2002).

Bangladesh – Quick Facts

Land area: 147,570 km2 Population: 131.5 million (2001) Population density:

891 people/km2 (2001) Gross Domestic Product:

US$ 47,826 million (2001) Per Capita GDP: US$ 364 (2001) The local currency unit:

Taka (BGT, Tk.) US$ 1= Tk 59.44 (2002 July)

Source – Bangladesh Bank (2002)

The country’s per capita annual energy consumption in 1997 was about 77 kgoe, and it was much below the world average of 1474 kgoe (ADB, 2001). Only around 30% of the population has access to electricity (BPDB, 2002). Over 80% of the people depend on traditional energy sources such as firewood, cow dung and agricultural residues for their energy needs. Excessive usage of firewood threatens the remaining forest cover, which is only 10% of the total land area (WEC, 2000).

Situation

sumption pattern (1995) 4005 MW (2001) (2001)

Per capita energy consumption, 1997 (kgoe)3206 6534

1200

1500

National Energy

Primary energy conInstalled capacity –Electrification – 30%

2

Renewable Energy: Potential and Deployment Bangladesh is endowed with vast renewable energy resources. Harnessing these resources appears to be a promising solution for improving the quality of life of rural villagers, who are unlikely to have access to conventional electricity supply in the foreseeable future.

Sources – World Bank (1998), ADB (2001), BPDB (2002)

73%

3%

11% 3%

Biomass Natural gasOil and Coal Electricity

77 32 33

373170

298

688

1002

0

300

600

900

Ban

glad

esh

Lao

P.D

.R.

Nep

al

Phi

lippi

nes

Vie

tnam

Indi

a

P.R

. C

hina

Thai

land

R.O

. K

orea

Sin

gapo

re

Per capita GNP, 1999 (US$)

220

1050

370 440780

2010

241508490

290370

0

1000

2000

3000

4000

Ban

glad

esh

Lao

P.D

.R.

Nep

al

Phi

lippi

nes

Vie

tnam

Indi

a

P.R

. Chi

na

Thai

land

R.O

. Kor

ea

Sin

gapo

re

Per capita Electricity generation (kWh) 2000, *1999, #1997

113 64

578342

1074

1531

482*252#

5635 7473*

0

500

1000

1500

2000

Ban

glad

esh

Lao

P.D

.R.

Nep

al

Philip

pine

s

Vie

tnam

Indi

a

P.R

. Chi

na

Thai

land

R.O

. Kor

ea

Sin

gapo

re

3

Solar Energy

Bangladesh receives an average daily solar radiation of 4 - 6.5 kWh/m2. Despite large potential, utilisation of solar energy has been limited to traditional uses such as crop drying in the open sun. Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems are gaining acceptance for providing electricity to households and small businesses in rural areas. In 1988, Bangladesh Atomic Energy Center (BAEC) installed several pilot PV systems. The first significant PV-based rural electrification program was the Narshingdi project initiated with financial support from France. Three battery charging stations with a total capacity of 29.4 kWp and a number of stand-alone solar home systems (SHSs) with a total capacity of 32.586 kWp were installed. Rural Electrification Board (REB) owned the systems and the users paid a monthly fee for the services. Since 1996, penetration of SHSs increased rapidly, mainly due to the efforts of Grameen Shakti, which sells PV systems on credit to rural households through its extensive network. Several other NGOs such as CMES and BRAC are also engaged in promoting PV technology. PV modules are generally imported, while there are a few private companies manufacturing PV accessories (Shakti, 2002). Biomass

Around 65% of the biomass energy used in Bangladesh is from wood fuels while the rest is from agricultural residues (27%) and animal dung (8%) (World Bank, 1998). Biomass is mainly utilised for domestic cooking. Traditional stoves in Bangladesh are inefficient and emit significant amounts of smoke, which is a health hazard. Agricultural residues such as rice husk, wheat husk, bagasse, corncob, peanut shells, rice and wheat straw, are abundantly available in most parts of the country. However, their utilisation for energy production is limited and inefficient due to their uneven and troublesome characteristics. Many of these undesirable characteristics can be overcome if the residues are compacted to form briquettes. Regular size and shape of briquettes make them easy to transport, store and utilise. Biomass briquetting technology appears to have been originally developed by local entrepreneurs without any support from the government or donor agencies. Later, BIT and BRRI developed this technology further to suit local conditions. Currently, over 900 briquetting machines, mainly using rice husk, are operating in the country. Another promising renewable energy technology in Bangladesh is biogas. Biogas obtained by anaerobic fermentation of cow dung and other organic

4

matters can be used for cooking, lighting and other purposes. Bangladesh has a potential to produce 2.97 billion m3 of biogas per year from cattle dung, which is equivalent to 1.52 million tons of kerosene (WEC, 2000). Further 1.476 billion m3 of biogas can be produced from human excreta and other sources (Shakti, 2002). LGED and IFRD of Bangladesh Center for Scientific and Industrial Research (BCSIR) are primarily involved in biogas technology dissemination. Two recent pilot projects targeted installation of 15,000 biogas plants with government subsidy (WEC, 2000). Hydropower

The potential of hydropower is very limited in Bangladesh due to the country's topography. At present only 230 megawatts (MW) of hydropower is utilised in Karnafuli hydropower station operated by Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB). BPDB is considering extension of Karnafuli hydro station to add another 100 MW capacity (WEC, 2000). Only a few locations in the southeast and northeast hilly region can be suitable for mini- or micro-hydro power plants (Rahmatullah, 2002). Wind

Preliminary studies indicate that wind energy will be viable in the coastal Bangladesh, offshore islands, riversides, and some inland open areas. Several years of wind data is essential for actual assessment of wind energy application. A wind monitoring system has recently been set up at St. Martin's Island. Two systematic wind data monitoring projects were carried out by BCAS and LGED at seven locations and by GTZ and REB at four other locations. Grameen Shakti has installed several small wind turbines (0.3 and 10 kW) on experimental basis (Shakti, 2002). National Policy on RETs

National Energy Policy (NEP)-1996 of Bangladesh proposed to establish a separate Renewable Energy Development Agency (REDA) for development of renewable energy technologies, which however, has not materialised yet. The Power Cell of Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has drafted a Renewable Energy Policy, which is awaiting approval. In 1998, the Government of Bangladesh lifted import duty and Value Added Tax (VAT) for PV systems and wind turbines. Beside, PV programmes of different government bodies (BPDB, LGED, REB) are subsidised by the government. Small Power Generation Policy-1998, which encourages small electricity generation capacity up to 10 MW by the private sector, also provides some incentives to renewable energy-based power generation.

5

Introduction Although the growing importance of renewable energy in providing energy services, particularly in rural areas, is now recognized in most developing countries of Asia, many factors hamper the best use of renewable energy resources in these countries, even when they offer cost-effective solutions. These issues include:

� Lack of awareness and information about the viability of renewable energy;

� Lack of mechanisms for financing renewable energy systems; � Poorly designed, unreliable or unaffordable renewable energy

systems based on technologies/designs inappropriate for local conditions;

� Lack of trained manpower for research and development, installation, maintenance and repair of renewable energy systems;

� Insufficient technology transfer and lack of technical, operational and market data at different levels; and

� Lack of consistent government policies and co-ordination among various organizations involved (government agencies, NGOs, R&D institutions, entrepreneurs).

There are a number of research and development institutions in Asian countries engaged in promotion of renewable energy technologies and they possess varying degree of expertise and experiences. Most of these institutes, which operate in isolation, can gain through networking with similar institutions in the region by sharing experience, joint and coordinated research and joint training programs and study tours. Under this background, a project entitled ‘Renewable Energy Technologies in Asia: A Regional Research and Dissemination Programme’ (RETs in Asia) was conceived. RETs in Asia programme is supported by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida) and coordinated by the Asian Institute of technology (AIT). The first phase of the programme was started

2. Renewable Energy Technologies in Asia: A Regional Research and Dissemination Programme

in 1997 and lasted for two years. It was extended to a three-year second phase, covering the period January 1999 to December 2001.

of renewable energy of countries in Asia,t of the region. The

ia presses forward the renewable energys.

RETs in Asia Objectives

The goal of RETs in Asia is to promote utilisation resources for meeting indigenous energy needsthereby contributing to sustainable developmenresearch and dissemination program of RETs in Asdiffusion of a few matured or near maturedtechnologies in a group of selected Asian countrie

6

Technologies Promoted under the RETs in Asia Programme Three renewable energy technologies are promoted under the programme. These include:

� Solar photovoltaics, � Solar- and biomass-based drying, and � Biomass briquetting

These technologies were selected considering the technological maturity, potential, and region-wide applicability. RETs in Asia Activities RETs in Asia focuses on three activities, which directly address some of the barriers identified:

� Adaptive research on renewable energy systems, principally to rectify and improve existing designs to suit local conditions and meet user expectations;

� Information dissemination, demonstration, monitoring, and developing strategies for promotion of the selected renewable energy technologies; and

� Technology transfer and capacity improvement of local R&D institutions and entrepreneurs through training, networking and collaborations.

7

Participating Institutions Three national research institutes (NRIs) from Bangladesh participated in the project. These include Grameen Shakti (GS), Center for Mass Education in Science (CMES) and Bangladesh Institute of Technology – Khulna (BIT). Grameen Shakti and Center for Mass Education in Science were involved in the PV technology while Bangladesh Institute of Technology was involved in the briquetting technology.

Asian Institute of Technology played a central role in the regional programme by coordinating research activities and providing logistical support. AIT also organised training programs, regular review workshops, and facilitated inter-country visits.

Regional Networking: Key Strategy of RETs in Asia Regional approach and institutional cooperation remain in the forefront of strategies adopted by the project. The project provides a unique opportunity for the research institutions in six Asian countries to work together and in partnership with the AsianInstitute of Technology (AIT). Joint development of research objectivesand methodology provided opportunities to include local issues in theproject.

Sida

RONAST

CRE GS

BIT RECAST

MIME

IE UPD

CMES

UPLB

SolarLab

ITC

STEA

Bangladesh

Nepal

Cambodia

PhilippinesVietnam

Lao PDR AIT

of taking science andeir development. CMESr educating unenrolled&D program on socio-e energy including solarsferred and extended Schools and 17 Rural

://www.cmes-bd.org.

bjectives of developing,to rural households. It isg of renewable energyGrameen Bank, which isffiliation positions GSrcializing products and

systems totaling 572 kW,ugh its 50 offices spreadm.

Center for Mass Education in Science (CMES)

CMES is an NGO established in 1978 with the aim technology to disadvantaged people as a support for thachieves this through its Basic School System designed foand adolescent dropouts. In addition, CMES has an Reconomic issues, appropriate technology and renewablelectricity systems. The technology developed is tranthrough its network of 377 Basic and Advanced BasicTechnology centers. More information on CMES is at http

a

ion and offers degree all major engineering f BIT has well equipped

nd bio-energy research gy. The Department is iomass. For details, visit

Bangladesh Institute of Technology (BIT) - Khuln

BIT-Khulna is an institution providing technical educatcourses at Bachelors, Masters and Doctoral levels indisciplines. The Department of Mechanical Engineering olaboratories and operates an Energy Park, wind field acomplex for advanced research in energy technoloactively involved in research related to briquetting of bhttp://www.bitkhulna.org.

Grameen Shakti (GS)

GS is a non-profit company established in 1996 with the opopularizing and delivering renewable energy systems involved in R&D, manufacturing, marketing and financinsystems. GS, a part of the Grameen family, is affiliated to a very successful community bank, and this aadvantageously to reach millions of people in commetechnology. GS has sold more than 11,000 solar home and sells an average of 400 to 500 SHSs each month thronationwide. More information is at http://www.gshakti.co

arning with a mission to o will play a leading role 1500 graduate studentstudy of AIT's School of out teaching, research ewable energy, energynt and climate change

l.

Asian Institute of Technology (AIT)

AIT is an international post-graduate institution of higher ledevelop highly qualified and committed professionals whin the sustainable development of the region. More thanfrom over 40 countries study at AIT. Energy Field of SEnvironment, Resources and Development (SERD) carriesand outreach activities related to energy efficiency, renpolicy and planning, power systems, energy environmeissues. For details, visit http://www.serd.ait.ac.th/ep/ep.htm

8

9

Photovoltaic Rural Electrification Solution Photovoltaic cells, which convert sunlight directly into electricity, provides one of the most practical solutions to meet basic energy needs for lighting and small household appliances for the people who have no access to electricity grid. PV systems ranked high in all respects such as reliability, quality of light, low maintenance and operational cost and as a source of environmentally friendly energy. The most popular PV-based rural electrification systems are Solar Home Systems (SHS) and Battery Charging Stations (BCS).

3. Photovoltaic Programme

Solar Home Systems are 12-volt direct-current (dc) stand-alone PV systems used in small rural homes. Each SHS includes a PV module,battery, charge controller, fluorescent lights, wiring and outlets appliances.

During the day, electricity from the PV module charges the storagebattery. In the evening, the battery is discharged to power lights andother appliances. The charge controller protects the batteries fromovercharging and over-discharging by controlling the flow of electricity between the PV module, battery and the loads. The loadsin a typical SHS comprise of two to four fluorescent lamps, a televisionand a radio.

Solar Home System (SHS)

+ -

Charge controller

PV module

Battery

Switch

Ballast

DC/DC converter

Fluorescent light

B&W Television

Radio

10

Activities of the program on PV technology, which were designed considering the needs of the users in Bangladesh include:

� Technology assessment of PV systems and appliances; � Establishing demonstration PV power systems and appliances,

and monitoring their operation and promotion; � Adaptive research and development of selected prototype PV

systems and appliances locally; � Standardization of PV systems/appliances/accessories and

practices and dissemination of the developed standards; and � Dissemination and training for PV-based applications.

Assessment of Needs Proper understanding of the ground situation is one of the important requirements in synthesizing a successful research and dissemination program. A detailed survey that covered users of 71 solar home systems provided by Grameen Shakti, Bangladesh Rural Advancement Committee, and Rural Electrification Board revealed that:

� The most popular solar home system in Bangladesh is the 50 Wp system (used by 36% of the total SHS users), followed by the 46 Wp system (used by 29%).

� About 69% of the consumers faced interruptions of power supply up to two days under adverse weather.

� The single most troublesome component was the tube lights (31% of the users). The problems mainly involved blackening of the tube and ballast failure. Batteries and charge controllers are the other components that exhibited significant failure rates.

� About 60% of the users mentioned that a technician was not available locally in case of a system failure.

� Over 90% of the users are satisfied with the present performance and 64% of the users indicated an increase in their income generating activities after switching to solar home system.

Also, they found that there is a demand for new devices such as dc-dc converters, safety devices for black and white television sets, ceiling fans, water pumps, battery chargers for mobile phones and inverters to be used with color television sets and other ac appliances.

11

Local Technological Solutions through Adaptive Research Adaptive research programs were initiated to improve and develop several balance of system components. The benefits of adaptive research include:

� Enhancing the acceptability of solar PV systems through development of improved balance of system components to suit local conditions;

� Development of new appliances in demand, some of which are related to income generating activities, adding the value of PV systems;

� Building capacity for producing the components locally at lower cost;

� Easy troubleshooting and replacement in case of failures; and � Encouragement of local entrepreneurs to invest in producing

balance of systems components. Some of the achievements by CMES and Grameen Shakti in their adaptive research programs have significant impact on the acceptance of solar PV systems in Bangladesh. Improved Electronic Ballasts for Fluorescent Tubes

Blackening of the tube ends was the most severe problem faced by all the organizations involved in promotion of solar home systems. From the experiences of Grameen Shakti, 83% of the imported compact fluorescent lamps (CFL) supplied with their systems failed within 6 months. The lamps supplied by a local company were not much better, with 65% failures. Extensive research and development efforts by GS and CMES have resulted in much improved electronic ballasts. For example, improved electronic ballasts developed by GS have shown extension of life over one year under field conditions. Charge Controller

About 75% of the low-cost imported charge controllers initially supplied with GS solar home systems failed long before the expected lifetime. Over 50% of the controllers supplied by a local company had to be replaced due to failures. Beside the failures, efficiency of these charge controllers was low. After adaptive research, Grameen Shakti developed a more reliable charge

12

controller with higher efficiency at a lower cost. GS now supplies Shakti solar home systems with their own charge controllers. DC-DC Converters and DC-AC Inverters

Most small electric appliances such as radios and audio cassette players need 6 V or 9 V supply whereas the output from solar home system is 12 V. No low-cost, efficient dc-dc converters were available in the Bangladeshi market. Both GS and CMES developed low-cost dc-dc converters that can provide 3 V, 6 V or 9 V output for small appliances. Other Devices

Among the other devices developed by GS and CMES are low-cost inverters for color televisions, protective device for black and white dc television sets, battery chargers for mobile phones, low-cost solar water pumps and fans. Also, some innovative devices developed through adaptive research program, such as the dc soldering iron and the sewing machine operated with solar PV power will assist in the income generating activities of rural people. Villagers are more likely to embrace the solar PV technology when they can see wider scope of applications. Demonstration, Monitoring and Dissemination PV systems developed after adaptive research were demonstrated in the field as it is one of the most effective ways of bringing a technology to potential users. The basic demonstration kit designed by CMES was a 50 Wp solar home system with three lights and connections for television and fan or other appliances. Grameen Shakti installed 10 demonstration solar home systems with different capacities ranging from 25-75 Wp. Well planed monitoring mechanisms were established to identify not only operational and technical problems but also the impact of demonstration units in popularizing solar home system. Data gathered through continuous monitoring were very useful inputs for adaptive research as well as for formulating marketing strategies. Educating Potential Users

Grameen Shakti and CMES organised a large number of solar home system demonstration events where the benefits and limitations of the system, costs and ways of financing were introduced at gatherings of potential users. Variety of media such as leaflets, brochures, calendars, diaries, newspaper advertisements and posters were used to reach the

13

intended audiences. A video program on solar PV systems was produced and screened during the meetings organised by CMES. GS has also produced a 16 minutes documentary video regarding the activities and achievements of GS, as well as the impacts of SHS in different remote communities in the country.

Pilot Projects

An innovative idea of solar PV micro-utility was experimented by CMES. A PV system serving a number of users, referred to as micro-utility, is

Dissemination Efforts of Grameen Shakti Bring Positive Results

Some statistics of Grameen Shakti’s dissemination efforts (Barua, et al.,2001):

� No. of visitors to GS’s 10 SHS demonstration sites: 182 � No. of follow up inquiries from the visitors: 90 � No. of attendees to 21 dissemination meetings nearby

demonstration sites: 2610 � No. of follow-up inquiries from meeting attendees: 233 � No. of new SHSs installed in the neighborhood of

demonstration areas during Jan 1998 – Jan 2000: 263

Grameen Shakti has found a notable increase in sales in areas wherethe technology is demonstrated and has decided to put more effortson demonstration and dissemination.

PV Demonstration and Dissemination Activities in Bangladesh

A workshop on PV PV-operated sewing commercialisation, at GS machine of CMES

14

installed at a common place such as village bazaar. The users pay a daily charge for the service received. CMES established such a system at Manikganji bazaar of the Dinajpur district, about 400 km from Dhaka during the first phase of the project. The concept of micro-utility worked satisfactorily, and CMES installed eight more micro-utility systems during the second phase of the project. The successful experience led Grameen Shakti also to venture into a PV micro-utility system. Training and Capacity Building Training and capacity building component of the PV program of RETs in Asia project was carried out at several levels: engineers and scientists engaged in R&D work, local technicians, and users. The special student and fellowship programs of RETs in Asia project provided an opportunity for technical personnel from the national research institutes to be trained in R&D activities at AIT. Also, representatives of GS

PV Micro-utility System

The shops in Manikganji villagebazaar traditionally used kerosenelamps called ‘Cuppi’ and‘Harricane’ to meet the lightingneeds. They spend up to Tk. 150(US$ 2.53) per month for kerosenein the case of Harricane lamps.Kerosene lamps offer poor qualitylight and often cause fire hazards.

In December 1999, the shops in the bazaar were connected to a PVmicro-grid, which supplied five hours of electricity per day to 24 fluorescent lamps in 21 shops and a black and white TV in a commonroom. The shop owners paid a refundable deposit of Tk 200 (US$ 3.38)to get the connection and daily tariff of Tk 5 (US$ 0.08) per lamp. Alocal resident was trained to operate the system and do minortroubleshooting/repairing. He also acts as the fee collector. Therevenue collected is used for the payment of operator’s salary,maintenance and repairs. The balance is deposited in a fund aimedat recovering the capital cost (Ibrahim, et al. 2002).

15

and CMES attended the regular RETs in Asia Annual Progress Review Workshops held at AIT. These workshops provided a forum for exchanging experiences, and to discuss the problems encountered during the implementation of project activities with representatives of the other countries. Also, engineers and technical personnel from GS and CMES participated in specialised training programs organised by collaborating institutions from other countries, gaining valuable experiences. Some examples were the training programmes on PV systems and inverter technology organised by SolarLab in Vietnam, and the training on charge controllers organised by the Center for Renewable Energy in Nepal. The issue of lack of trained technicians, which was a major hindrance to the dissemination of solar home systems, was addressed through the technician-training program. GS has trained more than 450 local technicians under its training programme while CMES made use of its Basic School network to provide training to local technicians. Both CMES and GS developed their own training manuals considering the local needs and target audience to use in these training programmes.

Educating users in application and maintenance of the PV system can prevent misuse and abuse of the system and improve the reliability. In user training programs of GS and CMES, participants were acquainted with solar PV modules, battery, charge controller, lamps and limitation in the daily

Solar PV Training Activities in Bangladesh

Technicians being trained at CMES Training for PV users by GS

usage. They were also trained to do simple maintenance tasks. Grameen Shakti alone has trained more than 2500 users, including many women participants.

Financial and Sustainability Issues Sustainability aspect has been not considered in planning and implementation of most of the pilot PV projects in Bangladesh. The exception was Grameen Shakti’s efforts to introduce solar home systems to villages in a commercial basis on easy payment terms. GS has relaxed its easy payment methods with the growing confidence, so that solar home systems are more and more affordable.

Scheme

system. Remaining

system. Remaining

system. Remaining

Evolution of Grameen Shakti’s Easy Payment

Early days 50% down payment to install the 50% in six monthly installments.

After some experience

25% down payment to install the 75% in 24 monthly installments.

At present 15% down payment to install the

16

In addition to installment sale, solar home systems can be rented or leased, or operated as micro-utilities when feasible. CMES has experimented with 16 rented solar home systems and believes it is more attractive than installment sale. One of the most successful pilot commercialization initiated by CMES was the micro-utility scheme for providing lighting power to a bazaar. Dissemination efforts of CMES and GS have created wider awareness of solar PV system not only among the potential users, but also among the various government agencies and policy makers through national dissemination seminars, reports and publications. It is believed that this will contribute towards positive policy steps conductive to further diffusion of solar PV technology.

85% in 36 monthly installments.

17

Biomass Briquettes as Fuel Although agricultural and forestry processing residues such as rice husk, rice straw, jute stick, sawdust, bagasse, and other residues account for a significant share in the total energy consumption in Bangladesh, the major limitation in utilizing them for energy is their low bulk densities and high moisture content. Biomass briquetting technology can transform these lose biomass into dry, solid briquettes of regular shape, usually cylindrical with a diameter of 5-10 cm, which can be easily stored and transported. Use of briquettes as a substitute for firewood helps to reduce deforestation. It will also help the rural women who spend considerable time and energy collecting firewood. However, traditional Bangladesh stoves are not the best burners for briquettes. Improvements to stoves are also necessary for harnessing the full benefit of briquetting technology. Briquettes can also be easily substituted for coal or firewood in industrial burners and kilns. Briquetting Technology in Bangladesh Briquetting machines used in Bangladesh are practically all of heated-die screw-press type. This type of briquetting machines produce briquettes in a continuous fashion using an extruder and a barrel. The briquettes have a partly carbonized outer surface, and a hole at the center. At the onset of RETs in Asia program, Bangladesh and the other participating countries had only limited experience in briquetting technology. Briquetting activities of the program attempted to address the following needs:

� Development of improved biomass briquetting systems and briquette stoves appropriate for local raw material, conditions, and practices;

� Local capacity building for designing, fabricating and maintaining biomass briquetting systems; and

� Demonstration and dissemination of improved briquetting systems and stoves.

4. Biomass Briquetting Program

18

Technology Improvement through Adaptive Research BIT - Khulna, the institution involved in briquetting research in Bangladesh, initiated its activities with a countrywide survey on briquetting machines. The survey found that there were about 900 briquetting machines in use, 98% of which were manufactured in Bangladesh. Most of these were small machines which can densify 75-120 kg of biomass per hour. They were operated with 15, 20 or 25 horsepower electric motors. The only raw material used was rice husk. Major problems faced by local entrepreneurs were the short screw life and high specific electricity consumption. These machines cannot be used in areas without electricity supply. BIT gave high priority to research for addressing these problems.

Heated-Die Screw-Press Biomass Briquetting System

In heated-die screw-press briquetting machine, the raw material (e.g.: ricehusk) fed into the briquetting machine is forced by a screw through a heated die. The die is maintained at a temperature of about 300oC by an electrical coil heater fixed around it. The screw is driven by an electric motor.

The briquettes often get partially pyrolysed at the surface and cause a lot of smoking. The briquettes formed are of 50-100 mm in diameter, and have a central circular hole that facilitates better combustion. The heated-die screw press briquetting process produces denser and stronger briquettes compared to other methods.

The technology seems to offer an ideal business opportunity for small entrepreneurs in rural Bangladesh. However, electricity is required for running the motor and heating the die. The amount of electrical energy input is a concern, as electricity is expensive and scarce in Bangladesh. The short lifetime of screw is another worrying factor.

19

Enhancing the Screw Life

Field surveys and laboratory tests indicated that screw life is as short as two hours in some cases. Worn out screws can be repaired by welding using filler metals and reused several times. Screw wear can be reduced by applying a hard-facing on the screw. BIT carried out extensive work on the selection of filler material and hard-facing alloys by carefully testing a large number of screws. Many other local institutions such as Metallurgical Department of Bangladesh University of Engineering Technology, surface-hardening section of Bangladesh Industrial Technical Assistance Center, and private companies such as Jameer Engineering Industries Limited were associated with this work. As a result of these efforts, the life of screw could be extended from 2-3 hours per run to 22 hours. Improved Low-Cost Briquetting Machines

Initial survey showed that the average cost of a briquetting machine was about US$ 2500, which is quite high for small investors in Bangladesh. BIT’s efforts in improving design and fabrication methods have brought down the cost of briquetting machine of similar production capacity to about US$ 800. In addition to cost reductions, BIT also developed a new mechanism for changing the worn out screws in a shorter time, thus reducing the machine downtime during screw replacement significantly. A smoke removal system was also tried out with limited success. Reducing Electrical Energy Consumption

Heating loose biomass before feeding into the briquetting machine reduces the power required for the motor, and gives an added benefit of longer screw life. Research at AIT has shown that preheating can save up to 10% of the total electrical energy required for briquetting ricehusk in conventional electric motor-driven briquetting machines. BIT developed prototypes of two different raw material pre-heaters, which used biomass briquettes as fuel. BIT also developed several models of briquette and kerosene stoves to heat the die, to replace electrical coil heaters. Another development very relevant to Bangladesh was a briquetting machine that can be run without electricity, using alternate means. In this machine, the electrical motor was replaced with a diesel engine, and the electrical coil heaters were replaced with kerosene stoves. The machine is attractive even at locations where electricity is available: the cost of fuel for running the engine (diesel) is only 50% of the cost of electricity required for

20

the motor, and the cost of fuel used for the die heating stove (kerosene) is only 33% of that consumed by the electrical heater. Alternate Raw Materials

Almost all briquetting machines operating in Bangladesh use rice huskas raw material. Availability of new potential raw materials such as wheat husk and wheat straw were discovered during the survey. BIT experimented with different raw materials such as bagasse, wheat husk, rice straw and sawdust and studied variations necessary in the screw design for using these raw materials. However, rice husk was found to be the best raw material, while a combination of rice husk and rice straw or wheat straw could also be used successfully with the existing designs of briquetting machines, screws and dies. Stoves for Biomass Briquettes

Biomass briquettes have different density and combustion characteristics compared to other biomass fuels such as wood. Therefore, it is essential to develop suitable low-cost briquette stoves to popularize biomass briquettes as a domestic fuel. Under RETs in Asia, BIT developed five different briquette-fired stoves for domestic use and tested them for their efficiency and user acceptance. Over 400 of these stoves were distributed to a local village community with whom the stoves became very popular. In addition, BIT carried out research on a gasifier-stove design (which is more efficient and less polluting) developed by AIT.

Briquetting Machines and Stoves Developed through Adaptive Research

Improved briquetting machine Improved briquette stove

21

Capacity Building, Technology Transfer and Training Junior researchers of BIT participated in several academic and training programmes on renewable energy in general, and briquetting technology in particular, at AIT, which possesses considerable expertise in the fields. The knowledge thus gained was used by BIT in the development of improved biomass briquetting systems and efficient briquette-fueled stoves. Experimental results and design details were also shared between AIT, BIT and other institutions participating in the programme. A biomass briquetting laboratory with fabricating and testing facilities was established at BIT. RETs in Asia helped BIT to achieve significant expertise in the area within the short span of five-years. Training programmes and workshops were conducted as part of the capacity building and technology transfer activities. BIT organised a regional training program on fabricating briquetting systems for researchers from Vietnam and Nepal. Later, in a reciprocating visit to Vietnam, researchers from Bangladesh learned about an improved briquetting machine and a new screw fabrication method developed at the Institute of Energy, Vietnam, which is another NRI participating in RETs in Asia. The above training programs point to the clear benefits of south-south collaboration in capacity building and technology transfer. BIT also developed a month-long intensive training program on briquetting technology for locals. BIT organised three such training programs where 68 local technicians were trained in fabricating, operating and repairing of briquetting systems. Under the special student program, two researchers from BIT got the opportunity of studying at AIT, where they followed advanced courses in biomass energy and participated in briquetting research. BIT also participated in the RETs in Asia Annual Progress Review Workshops held at AIT, which provided an opportunity for networking with other national research institutes, exchange of experiences and discussion of problems encountered. Dissemination and Demonstration BIT organised a series of events such as seminars, workshops and exhibitions with the aim of disseminating the improved biomass briquetting technology. Several national workshops with more technical content were

22

organized, targeting the participants such as briquetting machine owners and operators, technicians, and teachers of engineering institutes. Other dissemination activities such as demonstration of briquetting machines and distribution of improved biomass briquette-fired stoves were also carried out concurrent with these workshops.

Several demonstration biomass briquetting systems were set up at BIT briquetting laboratory. Briquetting machine owners, operators and potential investors were encouraged to visit BIT laboratory and examine these systems. Several other means of information dissemination such as distribution of brochures, calendars, diaries, and other information materials were undertaken on a regular basis to increase the awareness of this technology among the potential entrepreneurs and briquette users.

Briquetting Technology Dissemination Activities in Bangladesh

Briquette stoves disseminated A dissemination seminar in a local workshop organized by BIT

When the RETs in Asia regional research and dissemination program was initiated, the two technologies selected for promotion in Bangladesh were just at the inception stage. Application of PV technology in Bangladesh was largely confined to demonstration systems and several institutional users. The only notable dissemination attempts were the REB’s Norshingdi pilot project and Grameen Shakti’s efforts to sell solar home systems directly to the villagers. The former was dependent on the donor funds and initiative, with no appreciable plans for extension or replication. Grameen Shakti was facing marketing problems due to lack of people’s awareness and poor quality components. Similar situation existed for the briquetting technology as well. Only a few local entrepreneurs were engaged in biomass briquetting business using costly, but inefficient briquetting machines. The availability of briquette-fired stoves in the market was limited. During the project period, solar PV technology has taken a long leap in reaching rural Bangladesh. Grameen Shakti’s progress in its solar home system business is one good testimony for this. Rapidly growing demand for CMES’s innovative micro-grid systems from rural Bangladeshi market places is another evidence of increasing acceptance of the technology.

5. Retrospection

1997-2001 Sales Growth of Grameen Shakti’s Solar Home System

5000

6000

7000

stem

s so

ld

1997 2001

s

Indicator

No of SHS

23

0

1000

2000

3000

4000

1997 1998 1999 2000 2001

Tota

l no.

of S

HS

syInstalled

Capacity (kWp)

No. of customers

228

7.7

156

6759

336.3

6561

24

Achievements in biomass briquetting are mainly in technological improvements to briquetting systems. With sufficient know how, experiences and capacities for local fabrication of low-cost, more efficient briquetting systems, biomass briquetting technology is much more attractive than before for the interested entrepreneurs. Presence of trained engineers and technicians for maintenance and repairing is an added incentive. However, continued effort is necessary to diffuse this technology, which has a great potential in Bangladesh. In addition to obvious social and environmental benefits of widened utilisation of renewable energy technologies, RETs in Asia activities in Bangladesh contributed in instituting a related small industrial and service sector. A National Dissemination Seminar jointly organised by GS, CMES and BIT with the participation of relevant policy makers brought their attention to the recent developments in the renewable energy technologies area and the importance of a policy conductive to enhanced utilisation of renewable energy resources. The results of the project’s efforts were shared with the government officials and advisors, academics, representatives from the private sector and NGOs involved in renewable energy related activities. This information was further disseminated through publications, reports and presentations at various national and international forums. The RETs in Asia programme activities significantly enhanced capacities, expertise and resources of the three national research institutions participated in the project to take up the challenges in promoting the technologies. They have immensely benefited from the multi-directional technology transfer process facilitated by the project through collaborations with AIT and networking with institutions from the other participating countries. The regional networking approach of the program has provided an excellent model for project formulation, as well as research and development through collaboration and regional coordination. In order to consolidate the achievements and activities initiated, RETs in Asia is being continued into its third phase. The major objectives of RETs in Asia-III are:

� Conducting limited adaptive research and concluding the research carried out during the earlier phases by tying up the loose ends,

25

� Development of technology packages on selected RETs and demonstrating them on a semi-commercial or commercial basis,

� Review of barriers to commercialization of the selected RETs, identifying measures to overcome the barriers, implementing and monitoring a few selected measures, and

� Dissemination of research results. While the achievements in dissemination of the two selected renewable energy technologies are major feats, there is a long way to go in achieving the wider objective of improving the quality of life of millions of people in rural Bangladesh without access to basic energy needs. To attain this goal in sustainable manner, it is vital to maintain the momentum generated through the RETs in Asia program.

26

This booklet was compiled based on the reports prepared by Grameen Shakti (GS), Center for Mass Education in Science (CMES), Bangladesh Institute of Technology – Khulna (BIT), and the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) within the RETs in Asia programme. Some additional references are given below:

ADB – Asian Development Bank (2001), Key Indicators of Developing Asian and Pacific Countries 2001, Vol. 32.

Bangladesh Bank (2001), Bangladesh: Some Selected Statistics, Appendices of Annual Report 2000/2001. <www.bangladesh-bank.org/pub/annual/anreport/ appendix.html>

Barua, D.C.; Urmee, T.P.; Kumar, S.; and Bhattacharya, S.C. (2001), A photovoltaic solar home system dissemination model, Progress in Photovoltaics: Research and Applications, Vol. 9, pp. 313-322.

BPDB – Bangladesh Power Development Board (2002), Key Statistics, Dhaka: Bangladesh Power Development Board, <www.bd-pdb.org/key_statistics. htm>.

EIA – Energy Information Administration (2002), Statistics compiled by Energy Information Administration Department of Energy, U.S.A, <www.eia.doe.gov/ emeu/cabs/bangla.html>

Ibrahim, M.; Anisuzzaman, M.; Kumar, S.; and Bhattacharya, S.C. (2002), Demonstration of PV micro-utility system for rural electrification, Solar Energy, Vol. 72, No. 6, pp. 521-530.

Rahmatullah, B.D. (2002), Potential for small hydropower in Bangladesh, Energy Articles: Renewable Energies, <http://shakti.hypermart.net/articles/re/ smallhydro.htm>.

REB – Rural Electrification Board (1999), Yearly MIS Report, Dhaka: Rural Electrification Board, Bangladesh

Shakthi (2002), Different Energy Sources of Bangladesh, Shakthi – Energy Related Information Source of Bangladesh, <http://shakti.hypermart.net/ sources.html>.

WEC – World Energy Council (2001), Extract from the Survey of Energy Resources 2001, Energy Info Center, World Energy Council, London, UK, <www.worldenergy.org/wec-geis/edc/countries/Bangladesh.asp>.

WEC – World Energy Council (2000), Renewable Energy in South-Asia, A report prepared by World Energy Council, London, UK, <www.worldenergy.org/wec-geis/publications/reports/renewable/introduction>.

Word Bank (1998), World Development Indicators, Washington, D.C.: World Bank, USA.

References

27

AC (Alternating Current): Electric current in which the direction of the flow is reversed at frequent intervals, 100 times per second in Bangladesh (50 cycles per second) Balance of system (BOS): The parts of the photovoltaic system other than the PV array: switches, controls, meters, power-conditioning equipment, supporting structure for the array and storage components, if any. Biomass: All land and water-based vegetation as well as all organic wastes. All biomass is produced by green plants converting sunlight into plant material through photosynthesis. Biomass briquette: A block of compressed biomass for use as a fuel. Battery: For off-grid systems, a battery is used to provide energy storage. Typically, batteries used for PV systems are 12 V lead-acid type, ranging in capacity from 20-100 ampere-hours (Ah). Batteries are typically sized to provide several days of electricity or "autonomy", in the event that overcast weather prevents recharging. Charge controller: Charge controller controls the flow of electricity between the module, battery, and the loads. It prevents battery damage by ensuring that it is operating within its normal charge levels. If the charge level in the battery falls below a certain level, it will cut the current to the loads, to prevent further discharge. Likewise, it will cut the current from the module in cases of overcharging. Combustion: Chemical reaction between a fuel and oxygen which usually takes place in air. More commonly known as burning. The products are carbon dioxide and water with the release of heat. Commercial energy: Literally, energy traded in the market for a monetary price, usually conventional energy, such as coal or oil, but also wood energy, which is traded in urban and semi-urban areas in many developing countries. Often used to refer to conventional fuels, such as coal, gas and electricity, thus ignoring commercially traded woodfuels. The term non-commercial energy is often used to refer to biomass energy, ignoring the commercial trade of woodfuels and other biomass fuels. Conventional energy: Fossil-based fuels, such as oil, coal, natural gas and their derivatives, for which large-scale mechanism for exploration, conversion and distribution exist. DC (Direct Current): Electric current, which is flowing in one direction only. Opposite to alternating current (ac). DC-DC converter: A DC-DC converter can transform the voltage level of a dc supply. It is used in SHSs to provide voltages other than 12 V, for example, to supply a radio-cassette recorder operating with 9 V power supply. Electronic ballast: Fluorescent lamps cannot be operated directly from 12V dc supply. An electronic ballast is used to produce the higher voltages required to initiate and maintain the current flow through a tube light. Fluorescent lights: Fluorescent tube lights as well as compact fluorescent lights (CFL) are used for lighting. Fluorescent tubes have much shorter lives, but are cheaper and are more readily available in most developing countries.

Glossary of Terms

28

Grid: Network of transmission lines, substations, distribution lines and transformers used by centralized electric power systems. Inverter: An inverter converts dc electricity into ac electricity. Inverters are used in PV systems to convert 12 V dc into higher voltage ac, such as 230 V ac, when it is required to supply appliances working with ac power. kWh (kilowatt-hour ): A unit of energy (power expressed in kW multiplied by time expressed in hours). kgoe (kilogram of oil equivalent): A unit of energy, 1 kgoe ≈ 12.82 kWh Lignin: An organic matter contained in woody plant cells that helps to strengthen and stiffen the cell wall. Photovoltaic module: The smallest complete environmentally protected assembly of interconnected photovoltaic cells. PV modules used in solar home systems range between 20 to 75 Wp. They are mounted on a rooftop or atop a pole. Primary energy: Energy form as it is available in nature. Pyrolysis: Thermochemical conversion process that occurs when biomass is heated in the absence of air. The process breaks down biomass into a complex mixture of liquids, gases, and a residual char. If wood is used as the feedstock, the residual char is what is commonly known as charcoal. Renewable energy: Any form of primary energy, for which the source is not depleted by use. Wind and solar are always renewable, biomass can be renewable if its consumption is matched by re-growth. Non-renewable energy refers to any form of primary energy, the supply of which is finite and hence its use depletes the existing stock. It generally refers to fossil fuels. W (watts): SI unit of power. Symbol is W. Multiples like kilowatts (1 kW = 1000 W) or megawatts (1 MW =1000,000 W) are also used. Wp (peak-watts): Unit of the capacity of PV modules. PV modules are rated by their peak power output. The peak power is the amount of power output a PV module produces at Standard Test Conditions (STC) defined as module operating temperature of 25oC in full sunshine (irradiance) of 1000 W/m2. This is a clear summer day with sun approximately overhead and the cells faced directly towards the sun. Multiples: peak-kilowatts (1 kWp=1000 Wp), peak Megawatts (1 MWp=106 Wp) W/m2 (watts per square meter): Unit of solar irradiance on a surface.

29

30

Collaborating institutions: Center for Mass Education in Science (CMES) House #828, Road #19 (old) Dhanmondi Residential Area Dhaka - 1209, Bangladesh Tel: +88 02 811898 Fax: +88 02 803559 E-mail: ibrahim@citechco.net Website: http://www.cmes-bd.org

Contact: Prof. Muhammed Ibrahim, Executive Director,

Bangladesh Institute of Technology (BIT) Khulna 9203, Bangladesh Tel: +88 41 774900 Fax: +88 41 774403 E-mail: alibitk@bangla.net Website: http://www.bitkhulna.org

Contact: Prof. Md. Nawsher Ali Moral, Director

Grameen Shakti Grameen Bank Bhaban Mirpur - 2, Dhaka - 1216, Bangladesh Tel: +88 02 9004081 Fax: +88 02 801 3559 E-mail: g_shakti@citechco.net Website: http://www.gshakti.com

Contact: Mr. Dipal Chandra Barua, Managing Director

31

32

About RETs in Asia …

The project ‘Renewable EnergyTechnologies in Asia: A Regional Researchand Dissemination Programme’ (RETs in Asia) was initiated in 1997 with the broad aim ofcontributing to sustainable development ofthe Asian region through promoting theutilization of renewable energy resources formeeting indigenous energy needs of thecountries in Asia. The project promoted thediffusion of selected renewable energytechnologies in a group of six Asian countriesthrough a regional research anddissemination program. Regional approachand institutional co-operation remained inthe forefront of strategies adopted by theproject. Photovoltaics, solar and biomass-based drying, and biomass briquetting arethe technologies selected for promotion. Theproject is supported by the SwedishInternational Development CooperationAgency (Sida) and coordinated by the Asian Institute of technology (AIT).

For further information, please contact:

Prof. S.C. Bhattacharya Coordinator, RETs in Asia Programme Energy Field of Study Asian Institute of Technology P.O. Box 4, Klong Luang Pathumthani 12120, Thailand Tel: +66-2-524 5403 Fax: +66-2-524 5439 E-mail: bhatta@ait.ac.th

A publication of RETs in Asia http://www.retsasia.ait.ac.th/