There are approximately 300 unelectrified villages in Fiji. These villages are scattered across the many islands of Fiji and lack a connection to the main electrical grid, which is only available on the islands of Viti Levu and Vanua Levu. Mini-grids and solar home systems are effective options for rural electrification that cannot be reached through grid extension. This work completes data acquisition, modeling, and technical and financial analysis to design mini-grid systems for remote communities. These designs are compared and tested against generation outages, storm simulations and carbon emission reduction. Having backup diesel generators provides an easy solution to the issue of resiliency during storms or expected maintenance though creates more emissions than solar-only or hybrid counterparts. Systems with net zero carbon emissions are also considered to be realistic options if these align closer to project goals and are seen to be reliable for up to a week with limited solar irradiance. An assessment was also completed of components locally available to build the systems.

In this thesis report, I aim to explain the realities of humanitarian efforts to implement solar panel systems in rural communities, the challenges they face, and why they fail. I will also compare case studies of both unsuccessful and successful projects, which will lead to a proposed solar panel system design for a single home completed in collaboration with Arizona State University's Engineering Projects in Community Service (EPICS) Program for the Shonto Solar project.