USTDA approves grant for project to digitise mini-grids in rural Benin

The US Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) will extend a grant funding for technical assistance to Beninese mini-grid utility Sherlock Grids SAS, in support of its efforts to bring clean energy to rural communities in the West African nation.

The grant amount stands at USD 1 million (EUR 842,700), according to SparkMeter, a Washington-based net-metering technology and grid solutions provider chosen to work alongside Sherlock Grids.

SparkMeter was selected by USTDA as the prime contractor to deploy a comprehensive digital analytics platform to improve electricity grid operations for 100,000 people, the firm said.

The two companies will analyse the feasibility of bringing solar-powered mini-grids online, and also demonstrate the benefits of implementing a digitalised system to fully integrate and remotely manage multiple mini-grids, USTDA added in a separate statement.

The aim is to improve the operations of dozen of mini-grids, and ultimately help displace the use of charcoal stoves, kerosene lamps and diesel generators.

The SparkMeter-Sherlock Grids project is expected to finalise in June 2022, SparkMeter said.

Sherlock Grids SAS is a special purpose vehicle created in Benin by mini-grid operator Power:On and French independent power producer Akuo Energy.

(USD 1.0 = EUR 0.843)

Choose your newsletter by Renewables Now. Join for free!