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Economic sustainability and social inclusion in rural electrical grid design

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  • Onu, Uchenna Godswill
  • de Doile, Gabriel Nasser Doyle
  • Zambroni de Souza, Antonio Carlos
  • Balestrassi, Pedro Paulo

Abstract

Electricity access and affordability are critical for sustainable development. A significant global population without access to electricity is in the rural communities of developing countries. Rural grid investments are unattractive to investors due to low electricity demand and poverty of rural consumers. This paper assessed the financial capacity of rural dwellers to pay for electricity installation. The results reveal that rural consumers can barely pay for electricity. We propose a paradigm shift and alternative grid design models that recognize the various economic and social status of rural consumers. One suggested model proposes using agricultural production to drive social inclusion and economic sustainability of microgrid investments.

Suggested Citation

  • Onu, Uchenna Godswill & de Doile, Gabriel Nasser Doyle & Zambroni de Souza, Antonio Carlos & Balestrassi, Pedro Paulo, 2024. "Economic sustainability and social inclusion in rural electrical grid design," Utilities Policy, Elsevier, vol. 89(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:juipol:v:89:y:2024:i:c:s0957178724000729
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jup.2024.101779
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    References listed on IDEAS

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