This analysis demonstrates the economic viability of renewable energy in supplying electricity to rural schools, suggesting significant benefits for education access.
The Ethiopian Highlands face significant challenges in providing reliable electricity to rural schools, particularly due to the high cost of conventional power generation and distribution infrastructure. A mixed-method approach was employed, including a literature review, stakeholder interviews, and cost-benefit analysis to assess the economic viability and technical feasibility of renewable energy options. Solar photovoltaic systems showed an average payback period of 3.5 years in comparison to small hydro at 7.2 years, indicating solar as more economically viable for schools with limited grid access. Renewable energy sources are feasible and cost-effective options for supplying electricity to rural schools in the Ethiopian Highlands, particularly through solar photovoltaic solutions. Government agencies should prioritise funding for pilot projects using renewable energy technologies, focusing on solar photovoltaics as a key strategy to improve school electrification efforts.
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Asfaw et al. (2014) studied this question.
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