A Techno-Economic Assessment of Solar-Powered EV Charging Infrastructure in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Case Study of Tanzania

The global push for electric vehicle (EV) adoption is reshaping transportation, but its integration into power grids, particularly in developing nations, poses significant challenges and opportunities. In Tanzania, the transport sector's rapid growth strains a national grid characterized by its heavy reliance on hydropower and vulnerability to climate-induced outages. This paper performs a techno-economic assessment of solar-powered EV charging infrastructure, enhanced with Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) and Battery Swap Station (BSS) models, to bolster mobility and improve grid resilience. The methodology combines simulation using tools like HOMER Pro and Dig SILENT Power Factory, GIS-based mapping, and a detailed economic analysis across multiple scenarios. Key findings suggest that decentralized solar EV hubs offer a significantly more cost-effective and affordable solution for local drivers than the grid-only option, with the BSS model demonstrating the lowest Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE) at $0.095/kWh a 39% reduction compared to the grid-only baseline of $0.155/kWh. The BSS model also shows a rapid payback period of just 6.5 years, highlighting its commercial viability. Furthermore, the analysis reveals that while uncoordinated charging can cause significant voltage drops of up to 10% during peak hours, the implementation of smart charging and V2G services can mitigate these effects and provide crucial grid services like peak shaving. The research contributes a vital roadmap for a sustainable e-mobility transition in Tanzania, highlighting the critical role of solar and battery technologies in complementing the country's energy strategy.