NON-ELECTRICITY COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT MODEL WITH CENTRALIZED PHOTOVOLTAIC-BASED POWER GENERATION SYSTEM: A CASE STUDY OF BAN PHA DAN COMMUNITY, LAMPHUN PROVINCE

Abstract

This research aimed to develop the centralized photovoltaic-based power generation system (CPBP) for use in a community without access to electricity. Ban Pha Dan Community in Lamphun Province was selected as the studied area. The community context, physical features, number of households, energy demand, income, available technology, budget and community participation were acquired. They were used to establish the community-based model suitable for the management of the developed CPBP system. It was found that the appropriate model should include the following requirements. There should be a sufficient demand for installation of the system. The limitation of the CPBP system should be well understood by the community. The population density with at least 50 households, located within the radius of 1,500 meters was necessary. In terms of income and budget, the community fund should be established for financial security. In addition, 70% of the fix cost for initial CPBP system installation should be subsidized by the government. Individual house should also be responsible for the cost of electrical wiring from the system to the house.