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Energy Access vs. Energy for Prosperity: A Reassessment of Africa's Strategies and Priorities | IEEE Conference Publication | IEEE Xplore

Energy Access vs. Energy for Prosperity: A Reassessment of Africa's Strategies and Priorities


Abstract:

In recent times, sustainable development has received so much media, business and government attention, sometimes influencing the decisions of both voters and end-users. ...Show More

Abstract:

In recent times, sustainable development has received so much media, business and government attention, sometimes influencing the decisions of both voters and end-users. Expectedly, several organizations and governments endeavor to demonstrate their sensitivity to this theme in order to earn favors. Electrifying rural households falls within the topics on the front-burner. Although the general consensus has been that rural electrification has huge impacts on household labor supply, income and summary measures of well-being, some observational and randomized experimental studies suggest otherwise. Here, we reviewed the divergent conclusions across the literature, assessed technological readiness to support low-cost electrification, presented a case study of sustainable off-grid electrification from the Himalayas, and recommended sustainable growth strategies for energy-poor countries. We conclude that electrification efforts solely focused on electrifying poor and mostly rural households via government-subsidized mass electrification programs, are not likely to be economically transformative. Instead, Sub-Saharan African countries should prioritize energy for productive use as a strategy for both sustainable rural electrification and meaningful gains in development outcomes.
Date of Conference: 23-27 August 2021
Date Added to IEEE Xplore: 28 September 2021
ISBN Information:
Conference Location: Nairobi, Kenya

I. Introduction

How electrification is defined and measured is important because it forms our views on the nature of energy poverty and the solutions that are required. We differentiate between two separate components of electricity distribution. First, an access component, which comprises physically extending and connecting households to the grid. Second, is a service component, which comprises the ongoing provision of electricity.

References

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