This study, conducted by AFD, Setec, MEDEE and Onepoint, examines the crucial role of batteries in the development of mini-grids — an essential solution for accelerating access to electricity in Sub-Saharan Africa.
With rural electrification rates still low, mini-grids are emerging as the most suitable option to sustainably power isolated areas. Battery storage plays a central role: it mitigates the intermittency of renewable energy, ensures reliable supply, and reduces dependence on diesel generators.
The study compares the main technologies (lead–acid, lithium-ion, emerging solutions) and confirms the growing dominance of lithium-ion, which offers greater durability and performance despite a higher upfront cost. It also analyses the sector’s key challenges: harsh climatic conditions, financial constraints, end-of-life management, and reliance on international supply chains.
Finally, the report highlights strategic opportunities such as the development of local value chains, the rise of second-life batteries, and improved management systems (BMS/EMS). It proposes a set of operational recommendations to support a more widespread, reliable and sustainable deployment of storage solutions in mini-grids.
