Electricity Demand Mapping from Open-Source data (EDeMOS): a new methodology applied to Zambia

Spatially resolved energy systems modelling is increasingly used to provide more accurate insights into electrification planning and infrastructure development. This study presents a novel, open-source methodology for spatially resolved characterisation of electricity consumption in any given geography, and demonstrates this method on the case-study region of Zambia. By considering the geographical distribution of population centres, wealth and industrial activities, the methodology generates a spatially resolved electricity consumption map for buildings and industry. This detailed map can underpin the development of spatially explicit energy system models, facilitating informed decisions on grid infrastructure requirements, optimisation of electrification pathways, analysis of socio-economic impacts of energy transitions, supporting more equitable energy access in Zambia and other low- and middle-income countries.