The Impact of Energy Accessibility on Student Behaviors in Rural Tanzania*

Access to modern energy is pivotal in addressing energy poverty and enhancing education in sub-Saharan Africa. This study examines the impact of the Solar Cow project in Tanzania on students' time use. Our findings indicate that Solar Cow adoption influences student behavior, particularly in terms of time allocation. While students benefit positively from Solar Cow use, such as increased access to solar lanterns, its adoption is correlated with increased household chores and reduced study hours. This unintended outcome suggests a potential shift where a selective group of students may prioritize chores during the day and utilize solar lanterns for studying or personal time at night.