Assessing the Public Lighting with Solar Panels in the Sub Saharan Countries in Africa： Yaounde Case Study

Located in central Africa, Cameroon offers a wealth of solar power opportunity. The public lighting in the capital city Yaounde is an example of solar energy promotion. The purpose of this paper is among other things aiming at assessing the solar energy resources of central Africa and making sure it can be used optimally at least for public lighting. Based on the knowledge from data collected and field experience for three years, the authors will assess the implementation of the technology and show how the use of solar energy can solve some problems in the city of Yaounde even when the area is grid connected. This paper will also identify actions for improved access to sustainable, friendly, affordable solar energy services to users, as well as a significant improvement of energy infrastructure and energy efficiency in the city. The authors will also address issues on identified obstacles for the promotion of solar energy in order to help the cities in sub Saharan countries to develop a vision aiming at developing good solar energy policy and better contribute to fight against poverty and climate change.