Increasing Energy Access Research Articles

Integrating Solar PV into the Main Grid for Sustainable Power Supply

As a sustainable option to meet the rising global demand for energy, integrating solar photovoltaic (PV) technology is essential to achieving sustainable energy goals. This study comprehensively reviews the technological, economic, regulatory, and environmental aspects of solar grid integration, emphasizing practical examples and detailed findings. It identifies critical challenges such as grid stability problems, the intermittency of solar power, and high upfront infrastructure costs and significant advantages, such as lowering GHG emission levels, increased energy access and reduced operating costs. The research approach includes a thorough literature review of more than 204 peer-reviewed articles covering recent advances in solar technology, grid integration issues, economic impacts, and policy frameworks. To facilitate solar PV deployment and maximize its environmental and economic benefits, addressing technical and regulatory barriers, investing in grid modernization and implementing supportive policies are critical. These findings highlight significant opportunities for solar PV to address climate change and energy access, in line with global sustainable development goals. The study concludes that, despite the challenges involved, integrating solar PV into the main grid promises to deliver a safer, more secure and more efficient energy system.

Addressing Energy Poverty in Africa: The Role of Institutional Quality, Trade Openness, and Financial Development in Enhancing Access to Clean Fuels and Technologies

Energy poverty remains a significant issue in Africa. To address this, the African Union has adopted the African Common Position on Energy Access and Just Energy Transition, aiming to increase universal access to clean energy across the continent. However, studies in Africa that inform policy formulation toward this goal are limited. This study examines the role of institutional quality and financial sector development in improving access to clean fuels and technologies in Africa. Using data from 32 countries covering the period 2002–2021, the analysis was conducted using fully modified ordinary least squares (FMOLS) and quantile regression techniques. The findings indicate that financial development, trade openness, and institutional quality positively influence access to clean fuels and technologies, with trade openness and income also playing key roles. Financial development has a stronger impact at lower quantiles, whereas trade openness, income, and urbanization have a greater effect at higher quantiles. The influence of institutional quality is heterogeneous, but it enhances the effects of urbanization, financial development, and trade openness. Additionally, financial development strengthens the impact of trade openness. These results highlight the importance for policymakers to focus on strengthening institutions and promoting financial development to increase energy access.

Techno-economic analysis of green hydrogen production and electric vehicle charging using redundant energy on a solar photovoltaic mini-grid

Techno-economic analysis of green hydrogen production and electric vehicle charging using redundant energy on a solar photovoltaic mini-grid

Achieving universal energy access in remote locations using HOMER energy model: a techno-economic and environmental analysis of hybrid microgrid systems for rural electrification in northeast Nigeria

The developing world continues to face substantial obstacles to achieving affordable and dependable electricity access. This issue is especially pertinent for Nigeria, where diesel generators are widely relied upon in urban and rural regions because of an underdeveloped and unreliable national grid. The lack of grid reliability is worsened in Northeastern Nigeria, an area plagued by conflict, extreme poverty, and grid infrastructure deterioration. This study investigates the feasibility of implementing community-scale microgrids in rural areas without grid connection access. It focuses on assessing the technical, economic, and environmental aspects of utilizing these microgrids to deliver inexpensive and dependable electricity to underserved populations to increase energy access. A case study was conducted in Kabuiri, a village with an estimated population of 2,300 residents and an estimated load demand of 610 kWh per day. A hybrid microgrid system was designed and optimized to meet the community’s load demand using HOMER software, sized to produce 610 kWh/day of electricity with a renewable penetration of 99%. The optimal solar PV/battery/generator system had a levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) of $ 0.093 per kWh, a net present cost (NPC) of $266,709, and an annual operating cost of $9,110. The system contributed 1,624 kg CO2 eq/year of global warming potential and 56.81 kg O3 eq/year of smog formation during operation. Sensitivity analysis showed that the system could effectively react to or adapt to substantial increases in diesel prices, requiring only marginal increases in photovoltaic capacity and reduced generator usage to maintain the most cost-efficient operation. Additionally, the system model can be adapted based on the population of the remote community without substantially impacting the LCOE, however, the NPC increases with increase in population size. This research will aid in increasing energy access in remote locations by providing insights to stakeholders and energy access project developers.

Dominant factors for solar energy choice by Manufacturing Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs’) in Tanzania

Energy demand by manufacturing industries has increased significantly whereby fossil fuels consumption is dominant. Increased concern over resource depletion, and environmental impacts, suggests future dependence on renewable energies. Tanzania is blessed with abundant solar energy and its exploitation may contribute to increased energy access. Despite the paybacks of renewable energy, studies on the exploration of the dominant factors for energy choice by manufacturing MSME’s are scarce. This study explored the dominant factors for solar energy choice by manufacturing MSME’s. Questionnaires were used to collect data (n = 236) from employees in manufacturing MSMEs’ whereby descriptive and multinomial probit (MNP) model were employed to establish the dominant factors. The findings of MNP revealed that not expensive energy, and other factors (e.g., availability of solar appliances) have significant influence on solar PV use, while the adoption of hydro-electricity was significantly influenced by not expensive and advised to use energy. Easy access, and not expensive have significant influence on fossil fuels. The Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) results revealed that all factors (i.e., environmental, social, and economic) have significant influence on workers perception of sustainable manufacturing. These findings provide critical information for policy making instruments in Tanzania for informed decisions in the formulation of policies in the utilization of renewable energy technologies.

Empowering energy access: Exploring financial inclusion's impact on energy poverty in the fragile five economies

Empowering energy access: Exploring financial inclusion's impact on energy poverty in the fragile five economies

STATUS OF THE RENEWABLE ENERGY IN INDIA

As India faces the dual challenges of rapid economic growth and rising energy demands, the shift towards renewable energy has emerged as a crucial strategy for sustainable development. This study examines the role of renewable energy in India’s energy landscape and its impact on sustainable development. Renewable energy is essential for enhancing energy security, reducing environmental pollution, driving economic growth, and improving public health. By reviewing recent literature and analysing the progress in renewable energy adoption, this study highlights the significant advancements made in solar, wind, and bioenergy sectors. It also explores the benefits of renewable energy, including reduced greenhouse gas emissions, increased energy access, and alignment with global climate commitments. The findings emphasize the importance of continued investment, innovation, and supportive policies to maintain momentum and ensure a sustainable energy future for India. Further study used Average annual growth rate and graphs only. KEY WORDS: sustainable development, environmental, economic growth, greenhouse gas emissions

Information communication technology, globalization, and energy poverty: Prospects for sustainable development in the N‐11 countries

AbstractEnergy poverty is a significant barrier to sustainable development, affecting millions of people worldwide. However, technology offers innovative solutions that can bridge the energy gap and promote access to reliable and affordable energy services. In this study, we analyze the impact of ICT and globalization on energy poverty in N‐11 countries from 1990 to 2021, utilizing education, financial development, and economic growth as control variables. Results explain that the impact of ICT on energy poverty in lower quantiles appears to be relatively weak and positive, suggesting that it may be of limited effectiveness in reducing energy poverty in the most vulnerable populations. At higher quantiles, however, the impact becomes increasingly hostile, which suggests that higher ICT levels may exacerbate energy poverty among those who are already experiencing it. Energy poverty tends to decrease as globalization increases, as evidenced by the statistically significant negative coefficients across all quantiles. At the 10th percentile (Q0.1), an increase of one unit in globalization is associated with a reduction of 0.898 in energy poverty. Similarly, at the 90th percentile (Q0.9), an increase of one unit in globalization increases to 0.050 in energy poverty. It is possible to optimize resource utilization, reduce costs, and increase energy access through regional energy cooperation frameworks, such as cross‐border electricity grids or gas pipelines. In order to promote sustainable energy practices among citizens, the government should prioritize investing in clean energy projects, promoting energy conservation, and raising awareness of the importance of sustainable energy practices.

Coupled thermo-hydro-mechanical modeling on geothermal doublet subject to seasonal exploitation and storage

Coupled thermo-hydro-mechanical modeling on geothermal doublet subject to seasonal exploitation and storage

India's Odyssey to Sustainable Energy Triumph-Assessing the Impact of Access to Energy and Renewable Power in the Indian Electricity Sector

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to comprehensively examine the challenges hindering India's sustainable energy development, focusing on access to electricity, competition within the energy market, and the pivotal role of technology transfer and energy storage in overcoming growth hurdles. Theoretical Reference: The theoretical framework revolves around the intersection of Indian legislation and energy access, emphasising the significance of competition law in fostering a fair and inclusive energy landscape. The paper also draws on the theoretical foundations of technology transfer and energy storage as catalysts for sustainable growth in the renewable energy sector. Method: The methodology involves an in-depth analysis of India's renewable energy sector, exploring the impact of monopolies, anti-competitive practices, and the rapid expansion of solar power facilities. The study considers the role of competition law, technology transfer, and energy storage as key components in navigating the challenges of sustainable energy development. Result and Conclusion: The results underscore the interconnected nature of technology, energy storage, and competition legislation in India's energy revolution. The conclusion highlights public policy imperatives, emphasising demand-side management, resolution of contractual disputes, and the imperative need for efficient and cost-effective energy storage systems. The paper concludes with a call for a policy framework encouraging private sector participation and capacity building in the power sector. Implication of Research: The implications of this research extend to shaping public policy imperatives in the electricity sector, emphasising the need for demand-side management, resolution of disputes, and a policy framework to promote private sector participation. The research highlights the significance of these imperatives in developing efficient and cost-effective energy storage systems and achieving 'Round the Clock' renewable power. Originality/Value: The originality and value of this research lie in its comprehensive examination of the interconnected challenges and solutions in India's renewable energy sector. The findings contribute to the discourse on public policy imperatives, technology transfer, and competition law, offering insights that can guide policymakers, regulators, and businesses in fostering a competitive, sustainable, and resilient energy system. The study provides valuable guidance for maximising the benefits of renewable energy, ultimately contributing to increased energy access, sustainability, and economic growth in India.

The moderating role of remittances in the energy security-poverty nexus in developing countries

The moderating role of remittances in the energy security-poverty nexus in developing countries

Declining cost of renewables and climate change curb the need for African hydropower expansion.

Across continental Africa, more than 300 new hydropower projects are under consideration to meet the future energy demand that is expected based on the growing population and increasing energy access. Yet large uncertainties associated with hydroclimatic and socioeconomic changes challenge hydropower planning. In this work, we show that only 40 to 68% of the candidate hydropower capacity in Africa is economically attractive. By analyzing the African energy systems' development from 2020 to 2050 for different scenarios of energy demand, land-use change, and climate impacts on water availability, we find that wind and solar outcompete hydropower by 2030. An additional 1.8 to 4% increase in annual continental investment ensures reliability against future hydroclimatic variability. However, cooperation between countries is needed to overcome the divergent spatial distribution of investment costs and potential energy deficits.

Dynamics of solar energy entrepreneurship in rural Bihar, India

Dynamics of solar energy entrepreneurship in rural Bihar, India

Techno-Economic Optimization of Mini-Grid Systems in Nigeria: A Case Study of a PV–Battery–Diesel Hybrid System

This paper presents a feasibility analysis of the technical, environmental, and economic sustainability of an existing mini-grid technology system in Nigeria. The study investigates the cost and other operational parameters of the Gbamu-Gbamu solar–battery–diesel hybrid mini-grid, specifically the 85 kWp solar PV installation in the Ijebu East Local Government area of Ogun state. Situated within the Owo forest in South-West Nigeria, the mini-grid aims to reduce the effects of global warming and promote sustainable technological development in rural communities by increasing energy access through renewable sources. To assess the system’s viability, this research utilized RETScreen Expert software to validate the techno-economic and environmental sustainability of the installed mini-grid solar–PV–battery–diesel system in the region. Climatic data for the study were obtained from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). The results demonstrate that the system is economically feasible and environmentally viable, as indicated by the positive net present value (NPV) and an average monthly irradiance of 4.78 kW/h/m2. Furthermore, the system achieved a 92.9% reduction in GHG emissions, provided a reasonable payback period of four years, and enabled a yearly electricity export of 203 MWh. These findings highlight the system’s potential to enhance energy access and mitigate climate change.

BENEFITS, RISKS AND TRADE-OFFS IN RENEWABLE AND LOW CARBON TECHNOLOGIES FOR GREEN ENERGY ELECTRICITYPRODUCTION IN INDIA

Global energy demand is expected to double by 2050, necessitating an estimated investment of 2.5 trillion USD per year in new energy installations and energy conservation initiatives over the next twenty years. Furthermore, rising energy demand and climate change efforts necessitate a significant increase in low-carbon electricity generation. However, there is concern that rapid investment in some novel technologies may result in a new set of environmental problems. When compared to coal, electricity generated by hydro, wind, solar, and geothermal power can reduce emissions of not only greenhouse gases (by more than 90%), but also pollutants hazardous to human health and ecosystems (by 60-90%). CO2 collection and storage from fossil fuel power plants will cut greenhouse gas emissions by 70% while increasing pollutants affecting human health and ecosystems by 5-80%. On the other side, there is a risk that the widespread adoption of low-carbon energy technology, while beneficial in lowering GHG emissions, will result in new environmental and societal consequences. India's installed power capacity is approximately 408.72 GW. India has achieved 166GW of renewable energy capacity. India has met its NDC target of 159.95 GW of non-fossil-based installed energy capacity, accounting for 41.4% of total installed electrical capacity. The major goal of adopting renewable and low-carbon green energy technology in India is to drive economic growth, improve energy security, increase energy access, and reduce climate change. This paper discusses the benefits, risks and trade-offs in renewable and low-carbon technologies for green energy electricity production in India. This study has adopted secondary research methods such as articles, journals, government reports, etc on renewable and low carbon energy. This study presents various investment benefits, employment opportunities and challenges in renewable and low carbon energy in India. Moreover, this study provides recommendations to foster the expansion of renewable and low-carbon technologies for green energy electricity production in India.

Clean energy access as an enabler for social development: A multidimensional analysis for Sub-Saharan Africa

Clean energy access as an enabler for social development: A multidimensional analysis for Sub-Saharan Africa

Stakeholder Perspectives on Community Energy Contributing to the Use of Renewable Energy Sources and Improving Energy Security in Nigeria

The need for improved energy security in Nigeria cannot be over-emphasized. Currently, energy security is rather poor, while access to energy is fundamental to socio-economic development and poverty alleviation. Renewable energy could potentially contribute to resolving this because renewable sources such as solar radiation are more available and sustainable, and can be set up in small generation units, meaning that it is suitable for community management and ownership. In theory, a community energy approach could well apply. In this paper, the main research question is: In what ways can community energy initiatives contribute to increasing the use of renewable energy sources and improving energy security in Nigeria according to selected stakeholders and households? A mixed methods research approach was used to answer this question, with stakeholder interviews and survey data from 124 residents in two case studies of selected housing estates in Lagos. The results show that 58% of the households and most of the stakeholders express support for community renewable energy as a viable approach for increasing energy access and greening energy supply. The present study shows that there is a need to raise awareness and support projects for effective and supportive renewable energy policy to encourage local renewable energy community formation.

Policy mixes for business model innovation: The case of off-grid energy for sustainable development in sub-Saharan Africa

Business model innovation (BMI) is often complementary to technological innovation and offers novel and sustainable value creation opportunities. Enabling BMI through policy is difficult, however, and not yet well understood in practice or theory. We build on the quickly evolving literature on policy mixes to develop a theoretical model which explains how policy strategies and instruments shape the conditions for BMI. We derive the model inductively by studying the emergence of an off-grid renewable energy BMI in sub-Saharan Africa which proposes to actively create sustainable development in rural areas as opposed to merely increase energy access, drawing from 61 interviews with companies and industry experts as well as policy documents across six African countries. Our model has three core theoretical implications. First, focusing on policy strategies, policy instruments and their respective interactions, we uncover a set of mechanisms that explain how policy mix elements combine to create conducive conditions for BMI. Second, we shed light on the role of multiple objectives and goals within a policy mix for fostering BMI, which, if balanced appropriately, can create a productive tension between support and constraints. Third, we suggest the distinction between sector-specific and society-wide policy mixes as an analytical tool to study these tensions in policy mix research.

An Energy Justice Approach to Resolving the Conflict between the Development of Energy Access Projects and Human Rights Risks and Violations in Africa: Can a Balance be Struck?

This article addresses the potential widespread conflict between the development of energy access projects and human rights risks and violations in Africa. While this conflict is well known in the continent of Africa due largely to the need to increase energy access, solutions to tackle it are scarce. This article proposes using the United Nations (UN) Human Rights-Based Approach (HRBA) strategically to create a new framework to conceptualize and solve such conflict. For this purpose, it analyses the effectiveness of the HRBA framework, whilst highlighting some of the challenges facing its implementation in African countries. The article concludes that until human rights risks and violations – considered to be ‘energy injustice’ concerns – are mainstreamed through the HRBA framework and its principles into the plan and development of energy access projects, the conflict will continue to rise and may become another dilemma similar to the environmental protection and energy development discourse in Africa.

Measuring energy poverty in Mozambique: Is energy poverty a purely rural phenomenon?

Mozambique is one of the largest energy producers in the Southern African Development Community. Substantial efforts have been undertaken in recent years to increase energy access for poverty reduction in the country, however, most efforts seem to be concentrated to rural areas ignoring the existence of urban energy poverty, and despite all the efforts made, almost 70% of the Mozambican population still lives without modern energy services. The study assesses the extent of energy poverty and the impact of the different dimensions of energy poverty in Mozambique using the multidimensional energy poverty index approach and Mozambican demographic and health surveys data for households. It concludes that Mozambique has improved from acute energy poverty in 2009 to moderate energy poverty in 2015. Increased inequalities, however, accompanied this improvement. Energy poverty is a rural and an urban phenomenon since 34% of urban households are energy poor, suggesting that energy poverty in the country is a problem of lack of access and a lack of capacity to afford energy services to fulfill basic needs. Therefore, coordinated political actions between the various economic sectors and policies that focus on meeting the population´s basic needs, on technical, financial, and infrastructural issues may upgrade the use of electricity and its impacts on human development. Finally, we propose changes to the method to highlight the relevance of productive uses of energy for energy poverty alleviation. We also suggest the introduction of energy affordability measures in the Multidimensional Energy Poverty Index framework to identify the causes of energy poverty.