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Renewable Energy Access Challenge at Household Level for the Poor in Rural Zimbabwe: Is Biogas Energy a Remedy?

Author

Listed:
  • Tafadzwa Clementine Maramura

    (Department of Public Administration, University of Fort Hare, Faculty of Management and Commerce, South Africa)

  • Eugine Tafadzwa Maziriri

    (Department of Business Management, University of the Free State, Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, South Africa)

  • Tinashe Chuchu

    (Department of Marketing Management, University of Pretoria, Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, South Africa,)

  • David Mago

    (Great Zimbabwe University, Julius Nyerere School of Social Sciences, Zimbabwe)

  • Rumbidzai Mazivisa

    (Great Zimbabwe University, Julius Nyerere School of Social Sciences, Zimbabwe)

Abstract

This study examined Zimbabwe's energy access situation and suggests that Zimbabwe's energy access solution goes beyond providing biogas energy alone but needs addressing the root causes of Zimbabwe's inability to access renewable energy. The paper also challenges biogas fuel prospects and shortcomings. A mixed-method methodology has been used. Next, the qualitative data analysis was carried out using thematic analysis. The themes emerging from the findings include lack of knowledge about biogas power, difficulties in accessing start-up capital, and lack of resources needed. From a quantitative viewpoint, it was discovered that lack of adequate funds, high installation costs, lack of adequate data and negative attitudes to the community are some of the challenges that block biogas to be considered as renewable energy for the poor in rural Domboshava, Zimbabwe at household level. Based on the findings of the article, organizational consequences are explored, and recommendations are made for shortcomings and future directions for analysis. Broadly speaking, this study adds enormously new knowledge to the existing energy economics literature in Africa a context that some scholars in developing countries still ignore most.

Suggested Citation

  • Tafadzwa Clementine Maramura & Eugine Tafadzwa Maziriri & Tinashe Chuchu & David Mago & Rumbidzai Mazivisa, 2020. "Renewable Energy Access Challenge at Household Level for the Poor in Rural Zimbabwe: Is Biogas Energy a Remedy?," International Journal of Energy Economics and Policy, Econjournals, vol. 10(4), pages 282-292.
  • Handle: RePEc:eco:journ2:2020-04-36
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    waste management; energy poverty; firewood; deforestation; sustainable development;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C30 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Multiple or Simultaneous Equation Models; Multiple Variables - - - General
    • D12 - Microeconomics - - Household Behavior - - - Consumer Economics: Empirical Analysis
    • Q41 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Energy - - - Demand and Supply; Prices
    • Q48 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Energy - - - Government Policy

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