Improving Energy Access, Climate and Socio-Economic Outcomes Through Off-Grid Electrification Technologies: A...

Area of Science:

• Sustainable Energy
• Development Economics
• Public Policy

Background:

• Progress toward Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG7) is off track, with millions lacking electricity, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa.
• Decentralized renewable energy, or off-grid electrification, presents a viable solution to bridge this energy access gap.
• A comprehensive understanding of intervention effectiveness is crucial for guiding future sustainable energy initiatives.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review rigorous evidence on the impact of off-grid electrification interventions in low- and middle-income countries.
• To assess the effectiveness of different intervention types (direct provision, market expansion, subsidies/credit, information) on energy access, climate, and socio-economic outcomes.
• To identify challenges and facilitators influencing the success of these interventions.

Main Methods:

• Systematic search of 18 academic databases and 29 grey literature sources, supplemented by citation tracking and expert consultation.
• Inclusion of experimental and quasi-experimental impact evaluations, alongside qualitative studies, published since 2000.
• Meta-analysis of quantitative data and thematic analysis of qualitative findings to synthesize evidence on intervention effectiveness and contextual factors.

Main Results:

• Interventions significantly reduced kerosene use and increased off-grid technology adoption, with a small positive impact on energy access.
• Positive, though small, effects were observed on income, study time, and women's empowerment; however, publication bias was noted for study time.
• Qualitative findings emphasized the importance of financial support, local involvement, and effective information/marketing strategies for intervention success. High risk of bias was noted in the evidence base.

Conclusions:

• Off-grid electrification interventions can positively impact energy access and socio-economic development, but evidence quality necessitates cautious interpretation.
• Financial support and local engagement are key facilitators, while information provision requires further investigation.
• Future research should prioritize high-quality studies in diverse contexts and focus on specific intervention impacts to fill existing evidence gaps.