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[Display omitted] • Energy access, oil price fluctuations, and energy use as new environmental factors. • Energy use contributes to climate change, land degradation, and air pollution. • An increase in energy use is associated with an increase in CO 2 emissions. • Sustainable societies rely on energy access and the quality of the environment. • Environmental quality in APEC countries is affected by oil price fluctuations. Energy security has moved to the forefront of international policy agendas and boosted efforts to deploy clean energy technologies. In the past few years, clean energy investment has accelerated at a faster rate than investment in fossil fuels, contributing to the emergence of peak oil demand. This study examines the impact of energy use, energy access, and oil price fluctuations on environmental quality in APEC countries between 1991 and 2020 using shadow economies and agricultural lands as moderating variables. The results of the Arellano-bond dynamic panel data estimation show that energy use, energy access, agricultural land, and a shady economy are positively related to CO 2 emissions, while oil price fluctuations are negatively associated with CO 2 emissions in APEC nations. There is a positive correlation between energy use and carbon dioxide emissions among APEC nations. As energy use increases, CO 2 emissions increase as well. APEC nations have a positive relationship between energy access and carbon dioxide emissions. Policymakers in APEC countries must understand the implications of rising energy consumption and CO 2 emissions. To mitigate negative environmental consequences, develop sustainable energy sources, and promote economic growth, energy efficiency measures can help to minimize energy consumption and reduce CO 2 emissions. APEC countries are encouraged to develop carbon pricing mechanisms to encourage companies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through cap and trade systems or carbon taxes. The implementation of carbon pricing mechanisms encourages businesses to switch to cleaner, renewable energy sources as a result of putting a price on carbon emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Decades of government subsidies for LPG and electricity have facilitated near-universal clean cooking access and use in Ecuador, placing the nation ahead of most other peer low- and middle-income countries. The widespread socio-economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic has threatened the resilience of clean cooking systems globally, including by altering households' ability to purchase clean fuels and policymakers' considerations about continuing subsidy programs. As such, assessing the resilience of clean cooking in Ecuador during the pandemic can offer important lessons for the international community, especially other countries looking to ensure resilient transitions to clean cooking. We study household energy use patterns using interviews, newspaper reports, government data on household electricity and LPG consumption, and household surveys [ N = 200 across two rounds]. The LPG and electricity distribution systems experienced occasional disruptions to cylinder refill delivery and meter reading processes, respectively, which were associated with pandemic-related mobility restrictions. However, for the most part, supply and distribution activities by private and public companies continued without fundamental change. Survey participants reported increases in unemployment and reductions in household income as well as increased use of polluting biomass as a secondary fuel. Ecuador's LPG and electricity distribution systems were resilient throughout the pandemic, with only minimal interruption of the widespread provision of low-cost clean cooking fuels. Our findings inform the global audience concerned about the resilience of clean household energy use on the potential for clean fuel subsidies to facilitate continued clean cooking even during the COVID-19 pandemic. • Robust distribution systems for LPG and electricity ensured continued access to clean cooking fuels during lockdowns. • Households maintained primary cooking with clean fuels despite pandemic-induced reduced earnings. • Most households maintained their usual cooking fuel stack (LPG + biomass), but increased firewood use frequency. • Government policies offered additional subsidies for electricity consumption during lockdown. • Induction use was rare in study areas; but increased nationwide according to billing records. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this internet-based world where a large amount of information exists on the World Wide Web (WWW), the information retrieval systems are mainly centred on topic-based classification. Numerous efforts and time have been consumed for relevant information extraction through major search engines if the data is not organised correctly. Ontologies proved to be an effective technique for representing and retrieving information, which is the key idea in semantic web applications. Ontologies not only help in efficient knowledge representation and information retrieval, but it also helps in mapping the hidden knowledge about a subject. This paper discusses the process and method of building ontology on the "Energy access" domain. The methodology is based on the tools used in developing the ontology. Several tools are used to create an ontology. Protégé is a most popular tool for ontology editing and for developing ontology.1 In this paper, various aspects like super class and subclass hierarchy, creating a subclass, instances for class illustration, query retrieval process, visualisation, and graph views have been demonstrated by using protégé software. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Investments in energy access and clean energy for Global South countries are considered unprofitable or untenable unless the electrification projects open new avenues of income stream for the affected communities. This study proposes to use energy as a community currency to resolve the economy-ecology dichotomy, crowdfund the electrification project, provide an additional income stream to the community, and thereby ease the addition of clean energy capacity. The study compares the incomes, trade surplus, economic inequality, cost of reliable electricity, and carbon footprint of three newly electrified communities from Cambodia in three scenarios: before and after electrification and a simulated scenario when energy is used as a community currency. The simulated results from our study show that using energy as a community currency helps the newly electrified communities towards Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) better than conventional electrification. Our results suggest that using Energy as a community currency reduces the cost of reliable energy by at least 5 %, increases income levels by at least 4 %, and reduces the carbon footprint by at least 6 % for a newly electrified community when compared to the conventional electrification process. However, the effects on income inequality could not be confirmed. The results are also simulated with different proportions of household expenses towards externally produced goods, dominated by food expenses, which showed that using energy as a community currency benefits households with lesser dependency on externally produced goods. The overall results suggest that the use of community currency is likely to contribute towards poverty alleviation, access to electrified cooking, lesser consumption of fossil fuel, more hours of study time for children, affordable clean energy, decent economic growth, promote sustainable industrialization, incentivize responsible consumption and institutionalize self-sufficiency at the grass-roots level. Thus, it positively impacts 7 SDGs (#1, #7, #8, #9, #11, #12, #13) directly and 5 SDGs (#3, #4, #5, #6, #16) indirectly, leading to the sustainable development of newly electrified communities. • The use of energy as a community currency for newly electrified communities is proposed based on the existing concepts of energy tokens and similar concepts from previous studies. • Household-level data on annual energy consumption and energy production from 3 Cambodian villages is used for simulation and is compared with the pre-and post-conventional electrification scenarios. • The effect of community currency and electrification is measured on household and community income, community trade surplus, economic inequality, cost of reliable electricity, and annual carbon footprint. • The proposed concept reduces the cost of reliable energy by at least 5%, increases income levels by at least 4%, and reduces carbon footprint by at least 6% in the 3 newly electrified communities when compared to conventional electrification. • Energy as a community currency can be a viable climate financing tool with the potential to resolve the economy-ecology conflict, thereby contributing towards the achievement of 7 SDGs directly and 5 SDGs indirectly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Access to clean energy for cooking is central to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 7. Latest predictions suggest that this goal will not be met by 2030, with further setbacks due to the COVID-19 pandemic. We investigated the impacts of COVID-19 restrictions on household cooking fuel, practices and dietary behaviours in a peri-urban community in Central Cameroon. Using surveys (n = 333) and qualitative semi-structured interviews (n = 12), we found negative financial impacts and high levels of food insecurity, with 83 % and 56 % of households reporting reduced income and insufficient food, respectively. Households reduced food intake and cooking frequency and relied more heavily on local sources (e.g., farmland) to feed their families. Changes in primary cooking fuel were less pronounced and fuel choice was inherently linked to cooking behaviours, with some households utilising LPG more often for simple tasks, such as reheating food. Local systems were key in sustaining food and fuel access and households demonstrated resilience by employing numerous mechanisms to overcome challenges. Our findings underline the vulnerability of households in maintaining sufficient food intake and sustaining clean cooking, highlighting how policy needs to take a nuanced approach considering food-energy dynamics and strengthening local systems to ensure access to clean energy is resistant to system shocks. • Household cooking fuel and food access impacted due to COVID-19 pandemic in peri-urban Cameroon • Over 80 % of households reported reduce income, resulting in insufficient food and cooking less frequently. • Fuel use changes inherently linked to changes in cooking practices, such as using LPG to reheat after bulk cooking • Local systems key in supporting sustained food and fuel access • Understanding food-fuel dynamics and strengthening local systems is vital to maintain clean cooking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over 61 % of Cameroonians continue to rely on polluting fuels for cooking with negative consequences for health and the environment. To understand current and potential use of electricity as a clean energy source for cooking (eCooking), we conducted a mixed-methods study among households from three major urban/peri-urban centres in Cameroon: Douala, Yaoundé and Mbalmayo. Survey data from 1509 households, followed by an intensive one week "cooking diary" with 25 primary cooks and 10 semi-structured qualitative interviews, provided detailed information on cooking behaviours and fuel choices. Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) was preferred for daily cooking, with firewood or charcoal used for traditional dishes. Electricity was used only as secondary or tertiary fuel by 20 % (n = 311) of survey respondents and only used once a week or less, mainly to cook rice and pasta or boiling water. For those households using eCooking, the most common appliances were rice cookers and hobs; smart-meters attached to the eCooking appliances showed high voltage fluctuation (<160 V to 250 + V) which are suboptimal for sustained eCooking use. To scale up adoption of electricity for clean cooking policies for (i) subsidising cost, (ii) strengthening reliability of service provision and (iii) addressing safety concerns are needed in addition to awareness-raising of the benefits and practicalities of using eCooking appliances for everyday meals. • Cameroon has an high electrification rate but eCooking is not actively promoted. • eCooking is not popular even among more affluent households in urban settings. • eCooking appliances are mainly used to cook quick meals or boiling water. • LPG is the preferred cooking fuel in Cameroon among urban households. • Greater access to affordable eCooking appliances and reliable electricity is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The provision of electricity to rural off-grid island communities is considered a practical initial approach to achieving Just Energy Transition. Often, these communities are powered by diesel generators running on conventional fossil fuels that typically translate to higher electricity tariffs. The use of renewable energy technologies is deemed as the practical approach to electrify these islands. However, there is a need to define how these off-grid communities consume electricity to provide a more robust approach to load demand profiling. This study proposes an alternative path analysis approach to determine causality relationships between socio-demographic attributes of households and their ownership of electrical appliances, as an approach to ascertain electricity consumption. The approach is applied in three island communities in Palawan, Philippines where electricity is provided by diesel generators. A comprehensive survey considering age, gender, income, education, household size, and employment status was done in the three island communities. Path analysis using the R lavaan package was completed to determine causality and the results were compared with traditional correlation analysis. Results of both path analysis and correlation analysis show that income and education have the strongest significance in determining household ability to own appliances, and thus electricity consumption while age is not statistically significant at all. All other factors show weak to moderate significance. The results of the research provide a critical baseline approach to load demand profiling that can help stakeholders to conduct more efficient energy planning and develop more pragmatic strategies towards 100% household electrification and Just Energy Transition. • Provision of electricity to rural off-grid island communities as an initial approach to achieving Just Energy Transition • Alternative path analysis approach to find causation between household socio-demographics and electricity consumption • Determining correlations and causality using structural equation modeling [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Productive uses of energy – tied to the usage of energy for economically productive appliances – to catalyze improvements in livelihoods, healthcare, and education have gained increased attention recently from governments and donor organizations. Through an intensive qualitative field-study of 64 rural entrepreneurs in southern Indian state of Karnataka who adopted different types of Decentralized Renewable Energy Assisted Machines (DREAMs) to start or improve existing rural enterprises such as roti-making, blacksmithing, tailoring, and food-processing, we contribute toward understanding when, how, and for whom do such productive uses make a positive impact. Going beyond the analysis of financial returns, we present an integrated impact-resilience framework to analyze the non-financial and broader socio-economic impacts of improved electricity access for rural enterprises. We show that DREAMs activate a cascade of interlocking set of impacts and livelihood resilience measures. While there is a general appreciation that DREAMs may contribute to making the adopting households more resilient, we trace the pathways through which such resilience building might occur. The reorganizational effects of DREAMs on the economic and social fabric of rural life appear to be quite large and potent. Our observation of multi-faceted positive spillovers resulting from the adoption and use of DREAMs lends support for policy interventions to develop and support the local and regional ecosystems that undergird deployment of DREAMs in rural areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Meeting the targets of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7, which focuses on ensuring access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all, poses significant challenges. Overcoming these hurdles requires innovative solutions that can bridge the gap between current capabilities and future needs. Swarm electrification emerges as a promising concept that could accelerate progress towards achieving SDG 7 goals by leveraging the collective power of decentralized energy resources. This paper presents a literature review on swarm electrification and related insights from case studies. The study delves into the concept of swarm electrification, placing it within the context of the prevailing trends in the power system sector: decentralization, decarbonization, and digitalization. It examines the role of digital technologies in enhancing swarm electrification and categorizes application areas according to the phases of swarm electrification. Particular attention is given to the technologies underpinning Deep Digitalization, such as distributed ledger technology, notably blockchain, and artificial intelligence, with a focus on machine learning. These technologies play pivotal roles in advancing swarm electrification. The review demonstrates how deep digitalization can facilitate the improvement of swarm electrification and ultimately support the integration of bottom-up initiatives with top-down grid expansion efforts over time. [Display omitted] • Defined Swarm Electrification (SE) within power system's terminology. • Linked SE to 3Ds: Decentralization, Decarbonization, Digitalization. • Power system's decentralization and SE both unify into local energy communities. • Digital tech can enable and improve SE. • Machine learning and blockchain are highly relevant in SE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

From solar lanterns to home systems and minigrids, distributed renewable energy (DRE) has become increasingly competitive as an alternative to grid extension in household electrification across many parts of the emerging world. We explore how DRE use in Indian households has evolved against the backdrop of massive public investment in grid extension. Using two rounds of the 2015–2018 ACCESS household data from six Indian states, we estimate the impact of household electrification via grid extension on DRE ownership and use. We find that demand for solar microgrids and minigrids has all but disappeared, whereas demand for solar home systems and lanterns as backup solutions to intermittent grid electricity supply continues to grow. Most notably, while grid electrification has increased from 66% to 85%, solar lantern ownership has grown from 1.2% to 5%. The use of DRE as a backup solution to government electrification schemes seems driven by changes in quality of electricity supply. These analyses confirm that intermittent grid electricity supply is key to understanding the solar lantern's continued popularity. The results show that where population density, household income, and government commitment all favor grid extension, the most affordable DRE technologies can still play an important role. These lessons offer insights into the development of solar-based lighting markets in other regions, such as Sub-Saharan Africa, where grid extension continues but grid electricity remains intermittent in supply. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An energy access assessment conducted by Practical Action in 2018 as part of the Renewable Energy for Refugees project established that most households and small enterprises in Kigeme, Gihembe and Nyabiheke refugee camps in Rwanda had limited or no access to electricity. It also identified both demand in the camps for modern energy services and a willingness and ability to pay. To address the lack of access to electricity, two solar home system companies operating in Rwanda were supported by the project to access the camps and supply systems to refugees and the host community via market-based delivery models. This paper applies the diffusion of innovations theory as a framework to investigate the sales of solar home systems in the camps. It is the first paper to present data in this area and it assesses both the viability of market-based delivery of solar home systems in refugee camps and the suitability of using diffusion of innovations theory in these contexts. The results indicate that solar home systems can provide an advantage to households compared to existing energy solutions and are, in most cases, compatible with refugees' basic energy needs and expectations. However, the cost of systems remains a barrier and without subsidy, further reductions in costs or adaptations to payment models, solar home systems are unlikely to provide large proportions of households and small enterprises in the camps with access to energy. This seriously impacts the possibility of achieving Sustainable Development Goal 7 and for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees to achieve the objectives it set out in its Clean Energy Challenge policy. • The first study to assess the diffusion of solar home systems in refugee camps. • Explores the delivery of solar homes systems via market-based delivery models • Refugees can pay for energy by shifting expenditure from other areas. • Solar home systems can help achieve the SDG7 and Clean Energy Challenge targets. • Access to a solar home system was of particular value during COVID-19 lockdowns [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High hopes are pinned to mini-grids for rural electrification, especially in remote and sparsely populated areas. This note presents new evidence from a large evaluation of a US Millennium Challenge Corporation investment into mini-grids in Indonesia. We find that, a few years after commissioning, many mini-grids in the program do not operate properly, corroborating older concerns about the sustainability of mini-grids that have been voiced for several years. Operational costs are typically high and electricity demand low. Our findings are not novel; they rather resonate with a growing literature on the high-cost-low-demand dilemma in mini-grid electrification projects. Therefore, mini-grid programs should take these structural challenges into account, and especially abstain from overly optimistic electricity demand projections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the attempts of the government of Kenya and international development agenda to achieve the objective of providing energy access for all and facilitate empowerment and poverty reduction to the rural areas within the framework of sustainable development goals. Energy has been recognised as the key enabler of economic and social development, however, the efforts to bring energy access to women within rural communities are falling short. The policy tools and economic instruments prescribed to address energy deficiency are not designed according to the local socio-economic conditions, which will be examined through empirical evidence produced from an energy access project in Kenya. In the Last Mile Connectivity Project women are integrated into the project design in a piecemeal basis. Macroeconomic and structural drivers currently hinder women's development in rural areas and prevent long-term access to economic opportunities and socio-economic growth, particularly for women suffering from rampant underdevelopment. This allows for the critical exploration of links between gender, energy, and poverty reduction within the international development framework under the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals agenda. The remote locations are cumbersome, and the solutions prescribed by the international stakeholders are proving insufficient in the spreading of energy access to women, setting the ambitions of achieving longterm sustainable development at risk. Achieving energy access has positively impacted rural areas, but more should be done to provide sufficient energy to women in rural communities to increase their economic and social development because providing small-scale energy access levels in isolation might not adequately meet these goals. This analysis relies methodologically on a casestudy of the Last Mile Connectivity Project in Kenya and on data analysis and interpretation of the overall off-grid solar energy levels in Kenya provided by International Renewable Energy Agency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an analysis of the path towards a clean energy transition in rural areas, from the time that households do not have electricity access from any source, to when they get access to the national electricity; considering the intermediate access to an off-grid renewable technology, as well as the post-electrification years. For this, field household-level data are collected through surveys and electricity consumption measurements in rural Kenya. Potential electricity access transitions were analyzed, in which the determinants of grid-electricity and solar home system (SHS) adoption were identified, finding that factors such as peer-pressure, good quality housing materials, and a male as household head will increase the probabilities to up to 45% for grid-electricity adoption. Increasing the electricity price and the unreliability of the electricity service will have a negative effect on these probabilities, reducing them at rates from 5 to 22%. Households that had access to a SHS before getting grid-electricity connection are likely to consume 9 kWh/month (equivalent to 142KSh/month) more than those that did not have access to it. Results also show that women as decision-makers have a key role in the energy transition, as female-headed households are keener to move to cleaner fuels at an early stage. The post-electrification consumption peak is likely to occur until the third year of connection, as households acquire more power-consuming appliances; however, this is greatly affected by the electricity grid unreliability. These findings intend to fill in the knowledge gap on understanding each step of the energy ladder in rural areas, which can potentially support the design of energy access interventions and policy strategies. • Empirical research based on evidence from 250 households in rural Kenya • Maximum likelihood probit models are applied to analyze energy transition paths. • SHSs increase clean fuels adoption and electricity consumption after grid-electrification. • Women as decision-makers are keener to adopt cleaner fuels at early stages. • Electricity usage has an increasing trend over the years, having a peak on the third year. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As countries start to implement the Sustainable Development Goals in their national development agendas, reviews of the current policy environment are necessary to ensure that the goals are achievable by 2030. The present study assesses the effectiveness of energy policy in Indonesia in supporting progress towards universal energy access, a substantial increase in renewable energy deployment, and improvement in energy efficiency. Laws and regulations related to energy were reviewed, and their contribution to achieving the energy targets of the Sustainable Development Goals in Indonesia was evaluated in terms of policy effectiveness. Results show that providing electricity for the remaining 1.1 million households living in the outermost and least developed regions of the archipelago is very challenging. However, Indonesia is still on track to achieve 100% residential electrification by 2030 as long as enough budget is allocated annually. Indonesia may not be able to provide access to clean cooking fuels and technology for everyone by 2030. The current policy focusing mostly on gas for cooking will be less effective in reaching the remaining households that cook with solid biomass and usually live in poverty. Similarly, the current policy scenario is not sufficient to allow enough progress to achieve the renewable energy target. Finally, the assessment of energy efficiency policy suggests that sectoral energy use is shaped by variables and regulation not primarily intended to improve energy efficiency. • The electrification program as a national priority improves electricity access. • The clean cooking energy target may be missed as policy focuses on gas use only. • Regulatory uncertainties discourage investment in renewable electricity. • Energy use is shaped by policies not primarily intended for energy conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite increased access to modern energy services being a key development priority, few studies have examined whether improved access is sufficient to facilitate universal energy use at the household level. Using micro data from Vietnam, we study how a national grid expansion is translated into households' electricity use over time. Our analysis reveals that household income is an important determinant of electricity consumption, and that this relationship is highly nonlinear with respect to income. We find a greater degree of inequality in electricity expenditure than we do in income. This finding suggests that a rapid increase in electricity access may not translate directly into increased use of electricity for low income households and could potentially increase the gap in energy use between high income and low income households. Lastly, we find that household characteristics, such as the education level of the household head, household size, as well as the type of housing (quality), are important factors that influence electricity consumption. • Micro-level analysis of the determinants of household electricity expenditure in a lower-middle-income country context. • Household income is an important determinant of electricity use in a developing country context. • Electricity expenditure has a highly non-linear relationship with income. • Inequality in electricity expenditure is greater than inequality in income. • Policymakers should consider how to facilitate productive uses of electricity across the population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solar home systems (SHSs) have seen rapid growth and have proven to be a viable source of electricity for households due to their capability to reach remote users that do not have access to grid systems. Based on a comprehensive literature review of 139 papers focussing on SHSs in Sub-Saharan Africa, this paper highlights the key trends, research gaps and policy recommendations. The literature was categorised into four themes: institutional, technology, viability and user-centric. The review finds that the current primary themes of research are technology, user-centric and viability. This highlights the need for further research into the institutional barriers of SHSs, as well as the regulatory frameworks and incentives needed to increase their adoption. The most popular topics discussed in the reviewed literature included SHS business models, SHS design, the energy demand of end-users and barriers to SHS adoption. The authors also identified paucity of research in countries with low electrification rates, highlighting new locations for SHS research. • The authors reviewed 139 papers focussing on SHS research in Sub-Saharan Africa • Almost even split between technology, viability and user-centric SHS research with limited research on institutional issues. • There is a gap in SHS research in SSA countries with low electrification rates • Most popular topics were SHS business models, SHS design, end-user energy demand and adoption barriers • Need to develop stronger regulatory frameworks for SHSs and improved quality assurance through cross-sectoral partnerships. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solar technologies promise to provide clean energy to the poorest populations. Motivated by observations of low-quality products in the solar home system market, this study analyzes the role of product quality in the transition to cleaner energy technologies in developing countries. Our systematic empirical analysis of the Ugandan solar home system market reveals several market segments. Plug-and-play and full-service solar home systems offer relatively high quality, whereas component-based mix-and-match systems offer a low-quality, low cost alternative. In addition, we observed a ' no quality ' product segment with junk and fake products. Our analysis shows that neither high-quality nor low-quality solar products offer a win-win situation if we are to achieve " access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all " (SDG 7). Rather they are complementary as low-quality products may enhance a swift and inclusive transition, whereas high-quality products offer more reliable and higher quality energy access. This observation calls for reconsideration of the current development approaches that focus only high-quality products to achieve the SDG 7 and seeks to protect markets from low-quality products. More interaction between the different market segments is key to realize the promise of solar home systems for low income populations. • This paper explores the role of product quality in the energy transition. • It presents a systematic empirical analysis of the Ugandan solar home system (SHS) market. • The study shows neither high- nor low-quality solar products offer a win-win solution. • Low-quality products may enhance a swift and inclusive transition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Slow policy implementation are key obstacles for cooperatives to engage in low-carbon energy development in the Philippines. • The missionary electrification scheme fails to incentivize the development of low-carbon energy technologies in remote islands. • Laws and policies are not transformative per se. It takes people to animate these policies and laws. • The lack of a comprehensive energy sector planning at different levels is a major obstacle in the policy domain. • Joint venture schemes with electric cooperatives are not attractive to the private sector due to low revenue projections. Implementing renewable energy on Philippine islands is essential for sustainable development. Electric cooperatives play a key role to provide renewable energy to marginalized and remote communities not profiting from private sector interest. However, a low-carbon transformation of energy systems implies political, economic, technical, and societal risks and uncertainties. Here, we investigate those faced by the Romblon Electric Cooperative (ROMELCO) in installing one of the Philippines' first off-grid, hybrid energy system in the small and remote island of Cobrador. We apply a transdisciplinary mixed methods approach including expert interviews, surveys, and focus group discussions. We identify the most serious implementation risk faced by ROMELCO as the discontinuity between the policy pronouncement and implementation practice. We contribute with an analysis of ROMELCO's actions to address the complex bundle of implementation policies and programs for a wider replication and scaling up of cooperative based power supply. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mini grids are increasingly filling the supply gap between government supplied electricity and the requirements of households and enterprises. We present a descriptive analysis of enterprise development within a large mini grid based rural electrification initiative launched in India in 2015. Using data from two surveys conducted with 229 enterprise operators, we explore the change in aspirations among enterprise owners and the impacts of longer duration of reliable electricity on key business outcomes. We find that improved quality of electricity from mini grids leads to a shift towards using mini grids as the primary source of electricity; transition from lighting to productive uses of electricity; and increased aspirational demand for electricity among enterprise operators. Further, we find a positive relationship between increased hours of reliable electricity supply and extended hours of operation and customer footfall, but not with revenue generation. Our findings suggest that mini grids offer an important opportunity for enhancing local aspirations for business development and should be an integral part of policies focused on rural enterprise development. • We surveyed 229 enterprises connected to solar mini-grids in September 2016 and June 2018. • Enterprises shift towards using mini grid electricity as their primary source. • Enterprises adopt more productive loads over time and reveal an increase in aspirational demand for electricity. • Longer duration of reliable power is correlated with increased operational hours and customer footfall, but not revenue. • Mini grids can benefit enterprise development by increasing aspirations and allowing experimentation with business. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rural electrification is a complete transformation with even greater impacts in remote areas. Designing appropriate technologies that meet the tough requirements of isolated communities remains a challenge. Through the use of hydrokinetic energy, we take some isolated villages in French Guiana as examples to propose an electrical service keeping in mind that energy access is not an end-in-itself, the real goal being the sustainable development of the community. The triple layered business model canvas and a multi-criteria assessment method help to imagine the value proposition and the design of the solution in a sustainable approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy justice, building on foundations within both the field of environmental justice and wider justice scholarship, has grown rapidly as a research field over recent years. However, the dominant energy justice theoretical frameworks, and many of the field's core case studies, originate from work in developed countries, with energy justice research only recently spreading to new areas of the world. This paper thus systematically reviews the current state of 'developing economy' and 'economy in transition' literature in the energy justice field. In doing this we analyse the (1) methods, energy types and locations explored thus far, unearthing key gaps, as well as (2) the multitude of 'justice-led' theoretical frameworks used. We also identify core themes illuminated by energy justice research in the developing world, including: (3) decentralisation, access and sustainability, (4) exposing institutional instability and corruption, (5) acknowledging marginalised communities and gender inequalities, while extracting key (6) policy implications. Vital questions are raised for the continued advancement of energy justice research into new contexts and thus its conceptual evolution. Our review highlights the potential for energy justice-led attention to expand current institutional, contextual and empirical scope in specific ways, including greater attention to the poorest global regions, and certain energy technologies including nuclear and CCS. We suggest four ways in which future theoretical developments of the field might take place: (i) greater attention to spatial analyses of neglected regions; (ii) expanding the field to further include non-western philosophical traditions; (iii) more work on applying tenets, frameworks and principles specific to energy justice and (iv) systems approaches to developed-developing country relations, with an emphasis on how they relate to low-carbon transitions. Thus, while we explore past and present applications of energy justice in developing world contexts, we also offer guidance on the ways in which it could be applied in the future, alongside encouraging dialogue between different 'justice' fields. • First systematic review of energy justice studies in developing world contexts • Research emphasis on renewables, qualitative methods and specific regions noted • Three-tenets approach dominates; environmental/social/climate justice also central. • Energy decentralisation advocated to increase access and/or enhance sustainability. • Policy emphasis on increasing participation; little on reducing power of elites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A fair energy transition for indigenous and traditional communities is addressed. • Supply and demand side alternatives are analyzed from a multi-criteria perspective. • Informal connections jeopardize all efforts towards a sustainable energy transition. • SHS contribute to reducing inequalities and promote responsible energy consumption. • Appropriate solutions require institutional commitment and policy instruments. Despite ongoing efforts, resource depletion and climate change continue to aggravate inequality. How can energy initiatives contribute to a more sustainable and equal society? This work aims to identify the challenges and opportunities facing neglected Brazilian communities in achieving fair energy transitions. Indigenous and traditional communities are field-assessed through site visits and stakeholder interviews. Appropriate energy generation options and consumption reduction strategies are identified. These alternatives are qualitatively evaluated using the Resource Complete Potential Assessment, a multi-criteria decision method encompassing techno-economic, environmental, social and political perspectives. Results highlight the importance of reliable, safe and clean energy in preserving fragile ecosystems and fortifying cultural identity and territorial resistance. While informal grid connections lack security and motivation for energy reduction, solar home systems offer empowerment opportunities and stimulate responsible consumption. However, it is necessary to strengthen regulatory and financial policies and establish an institutional commitment that guarantees adequate technical and training support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As China strives for a sustainable and equitable energy future, understanding the dynamics of energy justice at the provincial level becomes crucial for effective policy formulation. This study investigates the status of energy justice across provinces in China and identifies key driving factors driving the transition towards a just energy system. Employing a comprehensive analytical framework, encompassing availability, affordability, sustainability, and responsibility—comprising 18 specific indicators of energy justice, the research evaluates disparities in energy access, affordability, and environmental impacts among provinces. Over the course of the last 17 years, a notable and positive evolution in energy justice is evident across the 30 provinces analyzed. This transformation is best encapsulated by the substantial increase in the average energy justice score, which has ascended from 0.0494 in 2005 to an impressive 0.1898 in 2021. Over the past 17 years, there has been a noteworthy enhancement in energy justice across three distinct regions (the East region, rising from 0.5291 to 0.1981; the Middle region progressing from 0.0498 to 0.1965; the West region, increasing from 0.0432 to 0.1733). The top 5 interactions among driving factors are as follows: energy consumption intensity and urbanization rate (0.3493), energy consumption intensity and industrial structure (0.3289), industrial structure and the level of marketization (0.3159), urbanization rate and the level of marketization (0.2959), and energy consumption intensity and the level of marketization (0.2786). The findings contribute to the growing discourse on energy justice by providing insights into the unique challenges and opportunities faced by different provinces in China. The implications of the research extend to policymakers, energy planners, and stakeholders involved in shaping China's energy landscape. By identifying the key determinants of energy justice at the provincial level, this study offers actionable recommendations to foster a more inclusive, sustainable, and equitable energy transition in the world's largest energy-consuming nation. • This study investigates the status of energy justice across provinces in China. • We identify key driving factors driving the transition towards a just energy system. • We include availability, affordability, sustainability, and responsibility as our dimensions. • The findings contribute to the growing discourse on energy justice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Structural and non-structural tensions are impairing rollout of EVs in Africa. • EV diffusion demands a mix of energy pathways based on hybrid vehicles and biofuels. • Special charging stations using renewables reduce EV power consumption. • A new business model for EVs in Africa would build energy security and make prosumers part of the continent's energy transition. Electric vehicle (EV) adoption in Africa is being driven by both structural and non-structural pressures. Hurdles to EV adoption as a tool for low carbon development are explained, drawing on interviews with energy specialists from Nigeria, Kenya, Ethiopia, South Africa, and Cameroon. Findings point to multiple-scale tensions between energy transition and access, between policy design and implementation, and between the spread of EVs and the power generation required to spur growth. Existing EV infrastructure is dependent on stranded assets from fossil fuel sources that are about to be abandoned for Africa's power supply. Scaling up renewable energy systems will be more efficient if operational costs for fossil fuel infrastructure are switched to capital costs. This calls for a fresh business strategy designed to address Africa's desire to ensure energy efficiency that will spur the acceptance of EVs , while also deploying renewable energy to reach global climate goals. By using a combination of market and policy instruments, a new regulatory framework, accessible financing, and stronger price signals can help phase out aging fossil fuel infrastructure and spark an efficiency revolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Transnational networks and cross-border resource flows were instrumental in diffusing solar PV in Uganda. • Transnational actors (TNAs) frequently privileged their knowledge and agency over that of the national actors. • TNAs exerted varying degrees of influence while providing expertise and finance, and pushed for their preferred solutions. • The specific trajectory of PV was largely a manifestation of the changes and shifts in development aid and finance. • The government and donors were important in the initial phase of PV development, and the private sector in the latter phase. While the sustainability transitions literature has highlighted the importance of agency in technological change, there is still limited understanding of the role of transnational actors, such as development agencies, which tend to be key drivers of energy transitions in low-income countries. This paper aims to fill this gap by investigating the role of transnational actors in the development of off-grid solar PV regime in Uganda, from the early 1980s to 2017. Specifically, we develop a typology of transnational actors and examine their roles in mobilizing the flow of knowledge, capital and technology towards shaping the country's off-grid solar PV rural electrification regime. By discussing the pivotal role of foreign actors, their underlying motives and their shifting importance over time, the paper demonstrates empirically the highly transnational nature of regime development. In doing so, we contribute to the academic literature on actor-oriented determinants in sustainability transitions, as applied to low-income countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper undertakes a comprehensive spatial mapping of the existing energy infrastructure in Kenya. With the perspective of the current energy status and local resources, the study develops a rural electrification spatial model for Kenya (RE_RU_KE tool) to identify optimal strategies for the different locations. The model considers the potential of conventional approaches (diesel gensets), clean technologies (solar, wind, hydro mini-grids), hybrid systems and the option of central grid extension to electrify remote areas in Kenya at the lowest possible cost. The model output is contrasted to the national Rural Electrification Master Plan (REM) of Kenya. While both the REM and RE_RU_KE tool target the off-grid rural electrification options, their methodological approaches are intrinsically different. The comparison between both results aims to enable valuable synergies and highlight the potential complementarities that can create added value for stakeholders involved in rural electrification planning. In particular, RE_RU_KE model output highlights the substantial role that renewable energy systems can play in decentralized generation providing universal energy access to rural households at a competitive cost. • Spatial analysis rural electrification tool for Kenya. • Focus on population without access to electricity covered by off-grid portfolio • Contrast to the Rural Electrification Master Plan in Kenya and the presented tool • Substantial scope for decentralized renewable energy generation in providing universal energy access among rural population [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The aim of providing affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all requires an in-depth understanding of the issues that affect energy access and energy fuel choice, particularly as related to urban informal settlements or slums. Within unequal societies, such as South Africa, a reliance on technical solutions to address access and inequality is inadequate, leading to resistance and protest. Further, introduction of a technical solution – such as solar PV - to address energy access in urban informal settlements, is a complex process, and requires a systems thinking perspective. Using Community Based System Dynamics modelling, this paper therefore investigated the issues that affect energy fuel choice and energy access as related to the introduction of a renewable energy solution in Enkanini informal settlement. Different energy user groups were engaged in the identification of the factors that affect energy access and energy fuel choice; the relationships between these factors in order to improve future interventions; and development of causal loop diagrams to visualise the key feedback loops. The identified factors were economic and market related such as affordability, availability, and land ownership but also included a range of socio-political aspects. 17 feedback loops emerged, of which 13 were reinforcing loops, and 4 were balancing loops. The key feedback loops relate to community empowerment and representation, whilst participation in the political process and the quest for legitimacy through direct electricity connections were recognised as broader issues to be addressed. Highlights • Relying on technical solutions alone may not address energy access issues. • The issues related to energy fuel choice and energy access are interconnected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Despite a significant progress in electrification over the last decade, more than 1 billion people have no access to electricity, and about 3 billion use solid fuel or kerosene for cooking and heating purposes. More than 95 % of them live in sub-Saharan Africa or developing Asia, and around 80 % are situated in rural areas. Conventional approach to power supply such as transmission grid extension is not economical due to high investment and connection costs. Technological progress has shifted down capital costs of renewable off-grid solutions. However, in the most cases, it is not enough to reach feasibility of these solutions due to weak investment conditions and weak purchasing power of the local population in these areas. The choice of business model can have a vital role in bringing electrification and connectivity to rural areas, providing flexibility and adaptability of the technology to the market conditions. Analysis of existing literature on business models for off-grid solutions concludes that the model for rural areas in developing countries should be more service oriented, be scalable to various use case scenarios, should provide good risk balance between customer and provider, and should enable transparency and quality of service. This paper analyses recent developments in off-grid system solutions for sub-Saharan Africa and provides classification of business model innovations. Based on the analysis, the paper proposes an innovative business model for Fusion Grid project, scalable mini-grid integrated with connectivity solution. Feasibility of the project is tested for three different cases, depending on the type of the rural community. Results suggests that combining micro-grid based power supply and internet connection as one service can contribute to a viability of the project, and, furthermore, can contribute to achieving global electrification goal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Decentralised Solar Home Systems (SHSs) are established as an effective strategy to connect the 'last mile' without electricity access and leapfrog communities to clean energy solutions. According to the World Bank, the Pay-As-You-Go (PAYG) model has emerged as one of the effective commercially viable solutions to provide decentralised energy access to rural and remote communities in developing nations. The paying ability of households is a critical challenge for energy enterprises, and PAYG, with its easy payment schemes makes solar units affordable and allows households to gradually own these systems. The model also offers user training, ongoing maintenance, and service blocking functionality that minimises investment risk. The PAYG model has demonstrated huge success in Sub-Saharan Africa where Kenya pioneered the model as a cost competitive modern alternative for kerosene. One in five people in India lack access to electricity, and grid-connected rural communities often face frequent blackouts. With the advancement in distributed solar technologies and growing penetration of the mobile telecommunications network in India, PAYG could advance into a successful model to electrify communities living off the grid. Our analysis involves a two-dimensional approach where a systematic review of PAYG literature including case studies from Kenya and India was performed, followed by three expert interviews to further augment learnings and opportunities to deploy PAYG SHSs in India. This analysis finds that India's socio-political context seems suited for increased PAYG penetration, including utilising the opportunity provided by the country's Unified Payments Interface. This paper offers insights for practitioners and policymakers to consider the PAYG model to deploy clean electricity to households and rural micro-enterprises. Highlights • Lessons for successful implementation of PAYG energy model in India • Superior products and maintenance mechanisms are integrated into PAYG. • PAYG financing appropriate for energy budgets of poor households. • India's Unified Payments Interface presents a unique opportunity for PAYG model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Energy poverty must go beyond access to address electricity mobility. • Structured ownership of electrical appliances can improve comfort levels. • Coordinated appliances ownership can precipitate economic productivity. • Electricity billing must be progressive and just. Abstract In mitigating against energy poverty in Nigeria, research interest has focused mainly on electricity access and reduced electricity bills for low/medium income households. However, energy poverty in the global south is not only a problem of access but also of mobility which plays a crucial role in the economic productivity of a country. The need therefore arises for a scheme that guides low/medium income level households in increasing ownership of electrical appliances in a way that will improve their quality of life at the least-cost possible. Such a scheme is expected to address a prevailing challenge of poor satisfaction from the utilization of electrical appliances commonly observed with low/medium income households to achieve comfort, using Nigeria as a test case. This paper thus proposes a progressive system of electrical appliance ownership for low/medium income households in Nigeria for improved comfort. Furthermore, this paper advances discussions on building comfort by establishing the relationship between household comfort and economic output for Nigeria. The proposed system and the results obtained find relevance in developing countries especially in sub-Saharan Africa and developing Asia for improving household comfort, mitigating poverty and precipitating economic growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Achieving universal access to electricity by 2030, as set out by the Sustainable Development Goals, presents a significant challenge given the current rate of progress. A recent promising concept is swarm electrification. Its central idea is the peer-to-peer energy sharing of surplus energy in solar home systems (SHSs) to connect additional neighbors and grow a bottom-up grid. This paper studies the surplus energy in SHSs and its underlying influencing factors as a basis for swarm electrification. An open-source multi-model-based techno-economic analysis of off-grid SHS including surplus energy as a value is presented. Three distinct household types from the tier 3 category in the Multi-tier framework are compared based on their unique ratios of peak-to-average demand and percentage of load consumption during sun hours. A statistical analysis of surplus energy for each household type is presented and energy sharing with additional households at tier 1–2 is simulated. Two economic analysis methods, including surplus energy, are presented and compared: single-objective cost minimization and multi-objective compromise programming. The study finds that a low ratio of demand during sun hours leads to higher surplus energy volumes, while a peak-to-average ratio alone cannot give such indications. Both economic methods suggest that optimizing the SHS design for tier 3 households involves a slight increase in solar power capacity when considering the expected revenue from selling surplus energy to 2–3 households in tiers 1–2. The total cost for the tier 3 households are reduced by 40 % − 64 % , additionally to decreasing their own lost load by 4 % − 7 % , and reducing the up-front cost to get electricity access for the tier 1–2 households by 50% compared to purchasing their own full SHS. [Display omitted] • A statistical analysis of surplus energy in SHS for rural Sub-Saharan households. • Swarm electrification model simulates the energy shared with additional households. • Revenue included in investment decision with single- and multi-objective optimization. • Electricity access at MEM achieved at half the total costs with swarm electrification. • High SHS cost due to peaks from electric cooking can be offset by swarm electrification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As of 2022, 675 million people do not have access to electricity globally. The large majority of this underserved population lives in Sub-Saharan Africa. Mini grids systems play a central role to close this energy access gap. The adoption of latest technologies such as remote monitoring solutions can contribute to strengthen mini grids business case by improving their operation, maintenance and performance. In this study we present the latest trends, opportunities and challenges of remote monitoring solutions for mini grids and we illustrate the potential of this technology in optimizing mini grids operations, making the case for wider adoption in the sector. The analysis is developed assessing primary data collected from seven mini grids developers, covering 49 photovoltaic autonomous hybrid rural mini-grids across seven sub-Saharan Africa countries. To better understand the advantages of remote monitoring solutions we present a classification based on their related benefits compared to manual/local monitoring options. Orientation toward the adoption of remote monitoring solutions by mini grids developers highlights the advantages from a market and from the operational and maintenance perspectives. Through a cost-benefit analysis of remote monitoring solutions, we show that can have a positive impact on mini grids operations, leading to an overall operational expenditures reductions of up to 17 %, with an investment payback time as short as 1 year. Finally, we provide an estimation of operational costs savings at country level by using remote monitoring solutions in future rural electrification efforts. • Interest from mini grid developers in the usage of Remote Monitoring Systems (RMS) is increasing • The use of RMS can reduce mini-grids' operational costs by 6% to 17% • In the best cases, RMS investment payback time can be as short as one year • In Sub-Saharan Africa, using RMS in rural mini grid operations could unlock over 820M USD in OPEX savings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ever-increasing energy resource demand and subsequent environmental challenges mean that policymakers have shifted their focus to nuclear energy to address energy and environmental issues due to its unlimited potential. The current study investigates the role of nuclear energy consumption to unveil contextual information and report novel evidence concerning the significance of energy and environmental policies. This research is a novel attempt to outline methodological and topical contributions, thematic analysis, co-citation analysis, and country-collaboration analysis. As energy and environmental solutions have been prioritized within sustainable development goals, our research approach would allow policymakers and researchers to understand the extent to which nuclear energy can provide solutions towards environmental sustainability and identify research limitations to overcome by future studies. Moreover, our extensive analysis allows us to argue that nuclear energy impacts energy demand and is the most critical factor in fulfilling environmental commitments under regional and international environmental agreements. • To combat climate change, policymakers aim to increase the share of nuclear energy consumption. • We have used bibliographic and systematic review to analyze nuclear energy publications. • Future energy reforms are critical in using nuclear energy as an energy policy tool. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Change in concentrations of PM 2.5 in China by scenario. Highlights • Under current policies the air pollution related SDGs will likely not be met. • Integrated policies to achieve energy access, climate and air quality goals are examined. • Multiple SDGs can be attained simultaneously with substantial co-benefits. • Additional cost are modest against major societal gains. Abstract Air pollution is linked with many of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Strategies aiming at the improved air quality interact directly with climate mitigation targets, access to clean energy services, waste management, and other aspects of socio-economic development. Continuation of current policies in the key emitting sectors implies that a number of sustainability goals will likely not be met within the next two decades: emissions of air pollutants would cause 40% more premature deaths from outdoor air pollution than today, carbon emissions would rise globally by 0.4% per year, while nearly two billion people would not have access to clean cooking. This paper examines integrated policies to put the world on track towards three interlinked goals of achieving universal energy access, limiting climate change and reducing air pollution. Scenario analysis suggests that these goals can be attained simultaneously with substantial benefits. By 2040, emissions of main pollutants are projected to drop by 60–80% relative to today, and associated health impacts are quantified at two million avoided deaths from ambient and household air pollution combined. In comparison to costs needed for the decarbonization of global economy, additional investments in air pollution control and access to clean fuels are very modest against major societal gains. However, holistic and systemic policy assessment is required to avoid potential trade-offs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The lack of access to modern energy services, sometimes also referred to as energy poverty, is a significant global development challenge. This paper provides an analysis of energy access in Small Island Developing States (SIDS), sheds light on current challenges and provides insights on opportunities to improve access to modern energy services in these countries. It provides an overview of energy access levels within the African, Caribbean and Pacific SIDS regions to refocus attention on their frail economies and dependence on imported fossil fuels. The focus here is on three specific factors that are still not well investigated: issues which relate to grid-extension, the lack of trained personnel for decentralised electrification and a high reliance on imported energy which drains Gross Domestic Product (GDP). A selection of SIDS case studies highlighting endeavours to expand energy access provide a basis on which key measures to expand electrification are suggested. Enabling conditions identified included a high level of commitment from the government and the setting up of an independent regulatory body with rulemaking and adjudicative powers. Additionally, the setting up of a cost-reflective tariff structure and appropriate fiscal framework are highlighted which can contribute towards electricity access expansion in island context. Highlights • Energy access situation under-represented in Small Island Developing States. • Barriers to electrification related to lack of ability to expand grid or decentralised solutions. • Electrification can be expanded through good governance and proper finance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Off-grid, renewable based electricity systems are becoming increasingly competitive for remote rural communities. When the electricity supplied is used productively by micro and small enterprises (MSE), it has the potential to contribute to income generation and poverty reduction. MSE are prevalent in rural Kenya to complement agricultural activities. However, most of them struggle to survive and they provide insufficient income to escape poverty. This paper investigates if the provision of electricity through solar mini-grids could contribute to improving business performance in rural Kenya. We use a difference-in-differences approach to compare business outcomes before and after electrification in regions with and without mini-grids. Outcomes include opening hours, number of enterprises, profits, sales, and expenses. Our results show that nearly two years after the implementation of mini-grids, these have not had the intended effect of improving business performance. Electricity consumption has remained low and demand for the products and services sold by local businesses has not picked up after the arrival of mini-grids. We recommend adjusting the size of the systems to the actual demand and implementing complementary measures to improve agricultural productivity and access to external markets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supplying electricity to populations without full access requires cost-effective, distributed sources of electricity generation. Diesel generators are a popular electricity source because of their low capital costs, but they can have high operating costs. Little data exist regarding the real-world behavior and operating costs of installed diesel microgrids. We report on the energy delivery and fuel consumption in three diesel microgrids in the Lake Sentani region of Papua, Indonesia. We found that these generators are operated below their capacity and that the fuel used per unit of electricity delivered can be over five times greater than expected based on published values. These estimations of specific fuel consumption suggest that nominally electrified areas are paying high costs for poor reliability, but cost-effective improvements are possible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rural electrification has progressed unevenly across the world since 1945, with some rural communities gaining access to power decades earlier than others. We examine the association between early electrification and the quality of electricity service to households, testing the hypothesis that aging infrastructure compromises the quality of electricity service. Using the 2014–2015 ACCESS survey from rural India, we find that early electrification is associated with improvements in the quality of electricity service, even controlling for village size and distance to nearest town. A possible explanation for the finding is that early electrification generates economic gains that allow the rural community to invest in maintenance and upgrades. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With just 12 years to go to 2030, progress in providing universal energy access and improving rural development outcomes in many rural areas has been too slow if the Sustainable Development Goals are to be met. Over a three-year period, the Smart Villages Initiative gathered evidence and views from over 1000 stakeholders from 70 countries to identify the framework conditions necessary for the provision of energy services to rural communities and to ensure that energy access translates into improved rural development outcomes. This short communication provides an overview of the key findings of this process and suggests a number of “bottom-up” insights and recommendations. These include taking an integrated approach to rural development, building markets to leverage the private sector, creating supportive, coherent and flexible policy frameworks at the national-level; and a re-think of financing mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

People without electricity access, numbering today more than 500 million in rural Africa alone, have been using dim and sooty kerosene lamps and candles for their lighting purposes for decades. In the present paper, current lighting usage patterns are systematically assessed using detailed new survey data from seven countries across Sub-Saharan Africa. The data makes evident that a transition has taken place in recent years, both unnoticed by and without external support from governmental or non-governmental organizations: the rural population without electricity in Africa has replaced kerosene lights and candles by simple, yet more efficient and cleaner LED lamps powered by non-rechargeable batteries. Nevertheless, we also show that the discharged batteries are generally disposed of inappropriately in latrines or the nature. The toxic content of many dry-cell batteries and their accumulation at local litter hotspots may have harmful repercussions on health and the environment. We conclude by suggesting that rapid action is needed to, first, install an effective monitoring system on batteries that enter the continent and, second, put in place an appropriate waste management system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2015 China provided access to electricity to its entire population—the first of the large emerging and developing countries to achieve that landmark goal that most advanced industrialized countries met decades earlier. We found some key experiences and lessons to be learned from China’s successful program to provide electricity for all. Substantial funding from the central government, delivered by mechanisms sensitive to local provincial needs, were essential to success. Also vital was use of off-grid solar home systems for the most remote users for whom grid connection would be quite costly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Subjective satisfaction is a central element of technology adoption, but scholars have not analyzed the determinants of households' satisfaction with their cooking arrangements. Drawing on an original survey of 8568 households across six Indian states, we uncover the predictors of such satisfaction. Households do not find firewood collection inconvenient, but they are dissatisfied if they have to travel long distance to purchase firewood. Among sub-components of subjective satisfaction, reduction in smoke, speed of cooking, and quality of meals dominate over others (difficulty, cost, and safety). Moreover, we identify access to LPG – a modern cooking fuel – as a strong and robust predictor of high subjective satisfaction, mostly through reduction in smoke and increase in speed of cooking. Rural households ascribe a lot of value to access modern cooking fuels that reduce indoor air pollution, and beneficiaries of interventions to improve such access would value it. Thus, efforts to reduce reliance on cooking with traditional biomass are not just paternalistic top-down interventions but contribute to significantly improve households' satisfaction with their cooking arrangements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Debate continues around appropriate metrics to measure energy access for the poor. Whilst the underlying principles of energy access, for example affordability or safety, may be universal, the ways in which we define or measure these may vary across different regions. Much of the literature on metrics focuses on standardisation of measures that can have universal applicability. Whilst important for the international community, there is also a need to develop metrics that reflect contextual specificities to be useful to in-country stakeholders. This study has sought to develop a multi-dimensional framework of indicators, with the focus on how to operationalise these in contextually distinct ways that respond to local issues. A framework is developed representing four key dimensions: fuel use, affordability, safety and reliability. The paper offers methodological insights into the development of each and they are developed for the South African context. This illustrates the ways in which a particular context influences both how an indicator is conceptualised, as well as the choice of methods to operationalise it. Indicators aim to be responsive to, and informed by, localised factors such as the particular energy user and supply contexts, the policy environment and data availability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Focusing on Latin America and Africa, a review on energy access, efficient energy use, and energy efficiency of the built environment in informal settlements of developing countries is presented, providing information on energy issues such as access, consumption, distribution, services, end use, technologies, and energy efficiency. Information about the main patterns of energy use and consumption in slums is provided, and the main barriers that reduce access to modern (and more efficient) energy sources for dwellers are highlighted. This review also reveals from one side that data on energy, and in particular energy efficiency, are missing or out-dated, as well as data and information on the interaction between energy distribution companies and slums’ dwellers. Further investigations are now in progress in order to fill the gap. In particular, in cooperation with local stakeholders and utilities, workshops and surveys with interviews to people living in slums are being carried out. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although most studies of energy poverty focus on whether or not households have access to modern fuels, expenditure is also an important issue, as households in developing countries spend a significant proportion of their total expenditures on energy. Using nationally representative household data from India, 1987–2010, this article describes and explains trends in household energy expenditure. While monthly household spending on energy has increased in many Indian states, this change is not driven by increased household affluence. Statistical analysis shows that when modern fuels (LPG for cooking, electricity for lighting and appliances) are available, households are willing and able to spend on energy. Indian households that have seen improved access to LPG and electricity have also seen much higher energy expenditures, whereas increased household incomes do not explain greater spending on household energy. For policymakers, the key lesson is that programs to improve access to modern fuels allow both wealthy and poor households to spend money on valuable energy services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most developing countries are facing energy shortage and this impacts the social and economic development. Reliable electrical networks are absolutely necessary for energy supply. Unfortunately, the energy access has become a major problem in developing countries. When electricity is available, in large cities for instance, the grid is not reliable. Additionally, power cuts, power interruptions and electricity rationing are frequent, causing social tensions. This work focuses on a solution for lighting during electricity rationing. The use of a dual-voltage LED lamp can be an alternative solution to expensive kerosene and candles. A dual-voltage LED lamp can give the same light output at 240 VAC, 20 VAC or 24 VDC. Here is proposed a design of a small electrical grid encompassing dual voltage lamps and energy storage. This solution can be implemented in single family homes and in renewable energy mini-grids, and as well as in whole cities. Successful trials have been carried out at the Open University and in Cambridge, UK and results are presented in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The high level of poverty in the developing countries is also manifested through access to energy. Nigeria is faced with an extreme lack of access to electrical energy in the midst of abundant natural energy resources. While attention is on hydro sources for electricity, energy supply is grossly inadequate and other sources of renewable energy attract very little attention. This study is focusing on energy poverty at the level of the households. The objectives of this work are to examine households’ access to energy, to measure energy poverty, to demonstrate spatial disparity in energy poverty and to establish a relationship between energy poverty and factors of energy access. The study used data published by the National Bureau of Statistics on energy access and parameters that may influence consumption of energy. These data are electricity connection to national grid by households and the use of clean energy for cooking by the households. Energy poverty is determined on the basis of Energy Development Index [EDI] and regression analysis is used to establish a statistical relationship between energy poverty and the possible determining factors. The results show high energy poverty for the country and disparity in energy wellbeing between the northern and southern states; the former are poorer in terms of energy access. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

India is a country where 300 million people still live without access to formal electricity, and where hundreds of millions more live with irregular supply through the existing grid network. This paper examines business innovation in the diffusion of off-grid solar technologies in India. An in-country survey of off-grid solar energy providers from across the nation was conducted and coupled with extensive field interviews. Findings reveal that most off-grid solar energy enterprises are not operating in the government subsidy market and that more than half are not offering any form of financing to their customers when selling their products. Also, more than half of the enterprises are selling their products in areas where the electric grid is present. Analysis of data collected suggests that an increase in product categories (lanterns, solar home lighting systems (SHS), micro-grids, etc.) negatively affects unit scaling for a firm but increases the likelihood that the firm is offering financing for its products. In areas without the electricity grid, the number of off-grid solar technology options decreases because the firms operating in the area have fewer categories of technology options. This study finds that off-grid solar technology enterprises that focus on fewer technology categories are more likely to achieve unit scaling. This finding must be balanced with the fact that the extent of the grid has not inhibited the market for off-grid solar technologies, but rather affects the number of categories of technologies that can be offered in those regions. Development programs should thus recognize that those who need electricity access the most may be the ones with the most limited technology options. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]