Best Practices in MV & LV Design & Maintenance in Mini-Grids

Overview

Expanding access to electricity is critical for improving health, education, and livelihoods in rural communities. Yet delivering reliable power in these areas, especially through mini-grids, comes with many challenges, from high costs and difficult terrain to limited data and maintenance capacity. This brief outlines practical guidance for developing and managing Medium-Voltage (MV) and Low-Voltage (LV) networks in rural mini-grids. It covers key areas including how to forecast energy demand, size and design network components, plan village electrification, ensure long-term maintenance, address operational challenges, minimise environmental impact, and prepare for repairs. The aim is to equip practitioners and Rural Electrification Agencies (REAs) with clear, actionable insights to help build resilient, efficient, and sustainable mini-grids that truly serve communities.

This material has been developed under the GGE-EA Project and funded by UK International Development from the UK Government; however the views expressed do not necessarily reflect the UK government’s official policies