Characterizing the variability and meteorological drivers of wind power and solar power generation over Africa

Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) has the lowest energy access rates in world, which poses a key barrier to power system development. Deployment of renewables, including wind and solar power, will play role expanding electricity supply across SSA: distributed generation (enabling for remote communities), cost-effectiveness low emissions are advantages. However, renewable is weather dependent; therefore, more renewables increases amount meteorologically driven variability system. Two countries SSA chosen detailed investigation this variability: Senegal West Kenya East Africa. These due being areas dense population, where there operational plans regional expansion. In Senegal, fairly consistent throughout year, while exhibits strong seasonality, with peak boreal spring. Low days during summer found be related passage African Easterly Waves. Over Kenya, both exhibit seasonal variability, peaking autumn, at minimum summer. Inter-annual greater over than Senegal; El Nino Southern Oscillation impact Kenya. phases associated lower October–December but higher July–September. This improved understanding assist planners designing reliable future systems.