Stabilizing weak grids through machine learning
Empowering farmers in end-of-line communities in North Africa through artificial neural networks
SWITCH aims at developing an innovative and holistic solution to stabilize weak grids security of supply in rural ‘end-of-line’ communities in North Africa.
What is SWITCH?
SWITCH is a multidisciplinary initiative committed to revolutionizing energy access in 'end-of-line' communities. Recognizing the challenges posed by weak grids, we focus on integrating smart solutions to stabilize electricity supply. Our project spans Morocco and Algeria, specifically targeting communities grappling with frequent power disruptions.
Why Stabilizing Grids in North Africa?
North Africa’s electricity grids face critical challenges with rising demands and unstable supply. Weak grids, particularly in rural farming communities, suffer from outages and rely on unsustainable fuels. The SWITCH project introduces a science-based solution with smart renewable energy systems and AI-driven tools to ensure reliable energy access, addressing community-level needs and local conditions.
Our Vision
SWITCH envisions a future where ‘end-of-line’ communities in Morocco and Algeria no longer face frequent power outages. By integrating smart renewable energy systems, AI-driven prediction methods, and optimal Agri-PV solutions, we aim to empower local communities, create sustainable energy sources, and enhance economic opportunities.
Project objectives
Concrete Actions for Change
The SWITCH team will employ innovative approaches, including an AI-driven decision support tool, to predict outages, solar power availability, and local demand. Through the integration of Agri-PV, we seek to create autonomous, decentralized energy supply systems that support weak grids during regular operation and provide power during outages.
Expected Impact
SWITCH aims to be a catalyst for change, fostering economic empowerment, reducing power outages, and promoting sustainable energy practices. Our short- to medium-term impacts include deploying AI-driven tools and Agri-PV solutions in pilot communities. In the long run, we aspire to see our solutions adopted regionally, stabilizing grids in North Africa and contributing to global improvements in electricity reliability.
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Project Partners
Team Members
Prof. Wilfried Zörner
Project Lead
Technische Hochschule Ingolstadt (THI), Germany
Prof. Driss Yousfi
University Mohammed Premier (UMP), Morocco
Prof. Esamil Ahouzi
Institut National des Postes et Télécommunications (INPT), Morocco
Mr. Johannes Baumann
Women engage for a common future (WECF), Germany
Prof. Ahmed Khallaayoun
Al Akhawayn University in Ifrane (AUI), Morocco
Prof. Messaoud Hamouda
University of Adrar (UA), Algeria
Prof. Driss Nehari
University Ain Temouchent (UAT), Algeria
Dr. Alireza Karimy
AI Town S.R.L. (AIT), Italy
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