Renewable energy microgrids have been introduced in off-grid villages of Mali to address power shortages and improve livelihood diversification. A mixed methods study combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews across selected off-grid villages in Mali. Microgrid adoption was associated with an increase of 15% in agricultural productivity, which contributed to higher income for farmers. The microgrids facilitated the diversification of livelihoods by enabling access to new energy sources and improved infrastructure. Policy makers should prioritise funding for renewable energy projects and integrate them into broader rural development strategies. Renewable Energy Microgrids, Livelihood Diversification, Economic Growth, Poverty Reduction, Off-Grid Villages
Sangare et al. (Tue,) studied this question.