Integrated Rural Energy Decision Support Systems
Shaligram Pokharel, Muthu Chandrashekar · Kluwer Academic Publishers eBooks · 2006
We have shown that the GIS and MOP platform can be used to develop a decision support system for rural energy planning. At present, REDSS is an academic exercise and the objectives are designed by authors to simulate an energy planning process. However, the analysis shows a potential practical use of REDSS for the examination of rural energy problems. Implementation of REDSS in the Phewatal watershed shows that biogas and fuelwood could be two major energy sources for cooking. If kerosene were affordable, progressively less fuelwood would be required for cooking. Interfuel substitution of this type can help protect degraded forests. Options like biogas, hydropower, and EFS are very attractive, as they reduce energy consumption per household. They do not merit installation, however, if only costs are considered. Such alternative energy sources and devices should be judged in terms of increased local energy supply capability and a more sustainable energy future.