**5.4 Back-up generation and power supplies**

In developing countries, the discrepancies between demand and supply may cause rolling blackouts, otherwise known as load shedding. This inability to meet load requirements induces consumers such as households and offices to install back-up gnerators and UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supplies). Back-up generators, create further problems, such as those described below.


Inherently inefficient Generators consume more diesel or gas

Rolling Blackouts

Fig. 5. The vicious cycle, where rolling blackouts induce more installation of generators, which consume more diesel or gas, otherwise usable in more efficient power stations.

Fig. 6. The vicious cycle, where fuel shortage cause more rolling blackouts, causing installation of more UPS, which absorbs more electric power, causing more shortages.
