PyPSA meets Africa: Developing an open source electricity network model of the African continent

Electricity network modelling and grid simulations form a key enabling element for the integration of newer and cleaner technologies such as renewable energy generation and electric vehicles into the existing grid and energy system infrastructure. This paper reviews the models of the African electricity systems and highlights the gaps in the open model landscape. Using PyPSA (an open Power System Analysis package), the paper outlines the pathway to a fully open model and data to increase the transparency in the African electricity system planning. Optimisation and modelling can reveal viable pathways to a sustainable energy system, aiding strategic planning for upgrades and policy-making for accelerated integration of renewable energy generation and smart grid technologies such as battery storage in Africa.