EXPLORING MICROGRIDS AS A PROMISING SOLUTION FOR EQUITABLE ELECTRICITY ACCESSIBILITY

Abstract

Ensuring fair access to electricity in urban areas is a major challenge that calls for a fresh perspective on urban development. One promising approach is to explore innovative solutions, like improving electrical infrastructure using distributed energy systems such as microgrids. The first step toward creating novel distributed solutions is to better understand the equity problem and identify potential implementation challenges. This study addresses this, taking a two-step approach. First, using historical data, the potential association between people's socioeconomic backgrounds and their access to electricity is investigated. This will help to determine if current electrical systems are serving all citizens equitably. Second, insights from experts were gathered through a semi-structured interview to uncover potential challenges in implementing widespread distributed energy systems and equitable energy solutions. By combining the findings from the data analysis and expert input, this study sets the groundwork for future research. This research will focus on identifying new potential solutions to improve equitable access to electricity in urban areas. The results of this study will provide valuable information to decision-makers, helping them identify opportunities and challenges in implementing distributed energy solutions, ultimately leading to a more equitable urban electricity infrastructure.