Life cycle sustainability assessment of (de)centralized power grids

Many parts of Africa are today not connected to an electricity grid. Both, centralized energy systems with extended energy distribution networks, which are common in other parts of the world, and decentralized systems with local energy generation and storage are feasible alternatives. Emerging materials and technologies continuously change the prerequisites for different solutions and thus a case can be made for several different types of energy systems. This project will take the perspective of materials science and explore what type of (de)centralized or hybrid solutions are most suitable for Africa, possibly in connection to Europe and Asia. Environmental, economic, and societal aspects will be considered when comparing the impact of different materials and technologies, from new types of high-voltage power cables to third generation solar cells and hydrogen fuel cells.