Energy for Radio: A Guide for Practitioners

The Catholic Media Council (CAMECO) found that a lack of reliable public energy was a problem for radio practitioners in Africa and other parts of the world. This guide, "Energy for Radio," is intended to support radio managers and operators as they tackle the energy issue at their station. The document is designed to increase understanding about the various energy sources and technologies, especially gensets, wind and hydro turbines, solar, and hybrid systems; it also provides information on assessment of energy needs, storage, protection, and regulation, issues identified by the author as important to making "informed decisions."

The guide is structured around five steps towards improving energy management at a station:

• Step 1: Assess energy needs
• Step 2: Identify potential energy savings
• Step 3: Select appropriate energy system and technology – both forenergy generation and for energy storage and regulation
• Step 4: Plan for the long-term management of the system
• Step 5: Select and work with energy technology providers to plan and install technology.

Energy for Radio also includes case studies of radio stations in Uganda, Sudan, Tanzania, Haiti, and Indonesia where renewable energy technologies have been implemented. Additional worksheets and a list of key resources may add to the usefulness of the publication.