1. Cost: Too high for village systems. Systems are subsidized, and the question is by
whom and for how much?
2. Operation, performance, and reliability are low:
a. Systems not operating. Long term O&M is a problem.
b. Local trained operators: If there is a system failure of any kind, lack of
observation, diagnosis, and repair to get the system operating can take months or
longer.
c. Management, tariffs, etc.: Unrestrained load growth on a village system cannot be
supported. Free energy and no one at the local level has any ownership in the
system. Minimal payment for energy has to be implemented at the local level.
3. Environmental: Corrosive and arctic environments require consideration in equipment
and operation and maintenance.
4. Manufacturer/Sales Support: Pilot and demonstration projects require at least two
years of support, whatever the cost.
5. Regional Infrastructure: Need enough systems installed in a region so you can have
regional utilities to get economics of scale for administration and operation and
maintenance.