Electrification of rural population has been always a strategic decision for the counties with high potential in terms of solar energy. However, different renewable and sustainable energy technologies can be adopted for electrification including photovoltaic system, diesel or hybrid system (photovoltaic and diesel). However, the choice between these options is exclusively dependent on many factors including the reliability and the cost associated with these technologies. This study aims to examine the reliability of the electrification of rural areas using a standalone photovoltaic (PV) system in a Sahara environment (Algerian desert). In order to assess the electrical performance of the photovoltaic system, an experiment is set up in the village of Fadnoun, which is loCated in 2100 km south of Algiers (Algerian capital). The experiment is carried out for one year and the reliability of the system together with the way in which this electrification influence the energy consumption the villagers are assessed. It should be noted that this is the first experimental study of this kind that has been carried out in Algeria. In addition, a technical-economic analysis was conducted by taking into account many parameters including cont, nominal power, solar radiation, and low voltage length. The outcomes of this study can be used as a benchmark to assess the performance of renewable energy technologies in other rural areas and make an informed decision about the most appropriate technology for electrification in rural areas. (C) 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.