Access to affordable energy is essential for sustainable economic development and improvement in living standards. The aim of this book is to act as a guide for development workers for financing small renewable systems and a source of reference for further in-depth investigation.The book examines the issues which affect the success of a renewable energy financing program on both a financial and a technical level: those interested in setting up financing schemes for renewable energy technologies must also be aware of the technical parameters, which can then be factored into any scheme.Photovoltaics has been chosen as the main example, as one of the most cost-effective ways of bringing electricity to remote areas. However, many of the examples and the financing issues discussed are also applicable to other renewable energy technologies.

Guides the reader systematically through the basic methods of hydrology and site survey and describes how to set up an appropriate scheme, with detailed technical information; also covers the essential economic considerations and maintenance requirements.