In October 2025, the RETO-DOSSO project reached an important milestone. The Decentralized Energy System in the rural village Dar Es Salam, Niger, was partially handed over to the Abdou-Moumouni-University (UAM). At the current state, the Dezentralized Energy System fulfills its functionality of delivering clean green energy from solar PV to the villagers. Besides, potable water, as well as non-potable for agricultural use, is provided to the villagers. 

Apart from water and energy, the village was also equipped with technical components further increasing the livelihood of the local population. Having access to electricity, light and a fan in their homes, is a substantial change to the previous living conditions. Furthermore, also the public buildings are fully equipped with sockets, lights and fans. All buildings in the village are now connected to the energy generating PV field and the battery energy storage via the newly built grid.

Beyond improving the existing infrastructure, a new building was erected and handed over as well. The building is called energy center and it does not only contain the components of the PV system.

The missing works for the full handover will be finished soon, which will enable many options for field research on the Decentralized Energy Systems and its social, environmental and economic aspects on the village.

In parallel, the Agri-PV system, which is part of the Non-Conventional Energy Storage System at the UAM in Niamey was erected, too. The next step there is the installation of the hydrogen container, which includes the components for storing the energy generated by the solar panels in form of hydrogen to power the WASCAL building. For more information click here.