Adama Sarr, Aldo Bischi, Umberto Desideri, Cheikh Mouhamed Fadel Kébé
Achieving universal electricity access in Senegal by 2030 remains a major policy challenge due to persistent spatial disparities in infrastructure, population density, and resource availability. This study conducts a nationwide, spatially explicit assessment of least-cost electrification pathways using OnSSET. The analysis develops context-specific scenarios to plan optimal technology mixes across rural and peri‑urban areas, based on differentiated tiers of electricity access. By integrating high-resolution geospatial, demographic, and techno-economic data, the model identifies the most economically viable solutions for achieving universal access. Results indicate that grid extension is the least-cost option for approximately 93.7 % of the population, largely concentrated in peri‑urban areas with high population density and proximity to existing grid infrastructure. In contrast, solar PV mini-grids (MG PV) and stand-alone PV (SA PV) systems are optimal for 0.7 % and 5.6 % of the population, respectively, mainly in remote, sparsely populated rural settlements. The total investment required to achieve universal electricity access by 2030 is estimated at USD 269.8 million, corresponding to 116.1 MW of additional installed capacity. Beyond quantifying cost-optimal solutions, the study demonstrates the potential of open-source geospatial models like OnSSET to support transparent, data-driven planning in developing country contexts. It also highlights key policy implications, emphasizing the need for integrated national electrification strategies that combine centralized and decentralized systems to address regional disparities. Limitations of the study include uncertainties in input data quality, static demand assumptions, and the exclusion of non-technical barriers such as institutional capacity and financing constraints. Nonetheless, the findings provide a valuable decision-support basis for Senegal’s ongoing energy transition and broader Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG7) objectives.
Background: Yemen is facing one of the most severe energy crises in the world, exacerbated by decades of conflict. In this context, sustainable energy solutions, particularly renewable energy technologies, have emerged as a critical pathway to addressing Yemen’s energy deficit while reducing environmental impact. The country possesses significant potential for renewable energy exploitation, especially solar and wind resources, due to its geographic location and climatic conditions. Scholars, policymakers, and development agencies have examined the challenges and opportunities facing Yemen's transition to a sustainable energy future. Objectives: This review paper aims to synthesize current knowledge on sustainable energy development in Yemen, exploring the potential of solar, wind, and other renewable resources, evaluating ongoing projects and policies, and identifying barriers and opportunities for future growth. By providing a comprehensive overview, this paper seeks to contribute to the understanding of how sustainable energy can support Yemen's recovery, economic development, and long-term resilience. Methods: The current review have been studied and analysed key studies and technical reports from 2010 to 2025, including contributions from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), the World Bank, and regional academic institutions. The analysis categorizes existing literature into five thematic areas: (i) renewable energy potential assessment, (ii) energy policy and governance, (iii) investment and financing mechanisms, (iv) environmental and social impacts, and (v) capacity development and institutional strengthening. Results: Recent policy reforms, scheduled for 2024, aim to establish the Authority for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency. The evolution of renewable energy policy in Yemen from 2010 to 2024 shows steady growth. Financing is a key challenge in Yemen's renewable energy transformation, although limited access to international financing, coupled with political risks, has limited private sector engagement. Renewable energy brings numerous environmental and social benefits to Yemen. Research shows that solar microgrids increase household incomes by 15 – 20%. Environmental goals include reducing CO2 emissions by 40% by 2050, increasing green space, and ensuring sustainable land-use planning for solar and wind farms. Furthermore, regional comparative studies show that the cost of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems in Yemen is competitive with fossil fuel-based generation, especially when long-term maintenance and fuel import costs are taken into account. Overall, Yemen's renewable energy potential is quite promising, with solar energy leading the way due to its volume, cost-effectiveness, and ease of deployment. Wind, biomass, and geothermal resources offer additional opportunities that can diversify Yemen's energy mix, increase resilience, and promote sustainable development. Conclusion: Ambitious targets have been set to diversify Yemen's energy mix and improve efficiency, including a 15% share of renewable energy by 2025, rural solar electrification, and improved energy sector efficiency. However, achieving success in this area still requires concessional and blended financing to reduce investment risks, the promotion of modular and decentralized deployment models (mini-grids, rooftop solar panels), and the integration of renewable energy expansion into resilience and recovery planning.
As the world grapples with climate change and energy insecurity, renewable energy has emerged as a central pillar of sustainable development. However, the transition to renewables faces persistent technological, economic, policy, and social challenges. This paper explores the dual nature of renewable energy—its immense promise and its complex barriers—through global trends and India-focused case studies. By analyzing large-scale and decentralized renewable projects, including Bhadla, Pavagada, Rewa, and Kurnool solar parks, as well as microgrid initiatives in Dharnai and Indira Nagar, this study identifies strategic pathways for inclusive and resilient energy futures. The analysis reveals that integrated policies, innovative financing, community participation, and technological innovation are key to maximizing renewable energy’s transformative potential. Key words: climate change, energy, renewable.
Transitioning to renewable energy is thus a very important component of global efforts toward combating climate change, especially in emerging economies where energy demand is fast outpacing supply. Carbon markets have emerged as a vital financial mechanism for supporting renewable energy projects by enabling the trade of carbon credits. The following abstract discusses how carbon markets affect multi-dimensionally the financial flows of renewable energy in developing nations: attracting investment, reducing capital costs, driving technology innovation, and delivering decentralized energy. Through case studies from Kenya, India, and Brazil, the article illustrates how carbon markets have indeed served to mobilize such large-scale renewable projects as wind farms and solar installations that improve the lot of rural and underserved communities. Despite the promise of carbon markets, it still faces regulatory gaps, market volatility, high transaction costs, and limited participation from local stakeholders. This may spell out actionable solutions, such as the development of regional carbon trading systems, enhancement of voluntary carbon markets, blended finance models, and the integration of emerging economies into global carbon market initiatives within frameworks like those under the Paris Agreement. Carbon markets could have a real catalyzing role in the transition toward renewable energy, with accelerated rates of greenhouse gas emission reduction and sustainable development in emerging economies, if they are able to successfully address these tacked barriers.
Anis Ur Rehman, M. J. Sanjari, Rajvikram Madurai Elavarasan, Taskin Jamal
Transformation of the energy sector is necessary to meet climate targets and ensure universal access to reliable and affordable energy. Despite progress, more than 675 million people still lack electricity and 770 million face an unreliable power supply. Renewable energy now provides nearly 30 % of global electricity generation and represents approximately 17.9 % of total final energy consumption. This amount is insufficient for the 1.5 ∘ C pathway and requires a tripling of renewable capacity by 2030. Energy efficiency also lags with average annual gains of 1.6 % compared with the 4 % required for climate-aligned energy scenarios. Therefore, this paper reviews pathways toward decentralized low-carbon solutions that can accelerate global energy transformation. The review paper examines how technologies such as microgrids, virtual power plants, energy storage systems, and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) solutions are reshaping modern energy systems. It highlights that digitalization, smart grids, and sector integration are key to building flexible and consumer-focused networks. However, achieving sustainable energy access requires more than new technologies. Strong governance, fair financing, and social inclusion are equally important to ensure a just and balanced energy transition. Case studies from Asia, Africa, and Latin America show how policy, innovative financing, and regional cooperation can drive progress despite challenges such as underinvestment, fossil fuel dependency, and energy poverty. The review demonstrates that an integrated approach, combining technological innovation, financial mechanisms, and inclusive policies, can collectively build low-carbon, resilient, and equitable energy systems. • Research gaps in sustainable energy supply on technology, policy, and equity are identified. • Sustainability-aligned pathways toward decentralized low-carbon solutions are reviewed. • Governance and planning are key for sustainable energy transitions. • A comprehensive framework of technical, economic, and social insights for sustainable transition is introduced.
The global transition to sustainable energy is critical for achieving development goals and addressing climate change. Beyond technology, economic paradigm shifts are now seen as essential to reshaping power markets and accelerating this transition. This paper explores key economic transformations driving the shift, focusing on innovative financial mechanism such as green bonds, blended finance and de-risking tools that mobilize capital for clean energy. It also examines the role of carbon pricing instruments like Emissions Trading Systems in incentivizing decarbonization and the rise of decentralized business models, including Virtual Power Plants and Energy-asa-Service and their implications for market structures and revenue streams. Drawing from international case studies and a review of current literature, the study identifies effective policy frameworks and financing strategies. Applying these insights to Vietnam’s energy context, it offers targeted recommendations to attract investment, reform power market design and strengthen the green finance ecosystem. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of the economic levers vital for enabling a sustainable, inclusive and resilient power sector aligned with Vietnam’s net-zero goals.
This critical review examines decentralised renewable energy (DRE) systems as game changers for sustainable energy access in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Although rich in renewable resources, over 570 million people in rural communities lack electricity. Traditional energy models, shaped by colonial histories and marked by inefficiencies, have failed to meet the continent's diverse energy needs. DRE systems provide flexible, community-focused solutions that promote energy equity, foster economic growth, and enhance climate resilience. Using Critical Juncture Theory and the Rational Choice Model, this study examines factors influencing DRE adoption. Analyses show how DRE encourages energy democracy, local ownership, and aligns with Sustainable Development Goals, including SDG 7 (Clean Energy) and SDG 13 (Climate Action). However, these systems face obstacles like fragmented policies, insufficient funding, technical gaps, and governance issues. Case studies from Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, and Ethiopia demonstrate implementation strategies, revealing supportive environments and challenges. This review synthesises policy discussions, highlights innovations like pay-as-you-go financing and digitalisation and outlines an integrated energy planning roadmap. Recommendations include regulatory reforms, blended financing models, capacity-building initiatives, and regional cooperation. This paper argues that decentralisation should be viewed not as a temporary measure but as a foundation for energy strategies. With visionary leadership, collaborative governance, and targeted investments, decentralised systems can transform Sub-Saharan Africa's energy future, prioritising equity, resilience, and sustainability. • Decentralized renewable energy (DRE) is paving the way for fair energy access across Sub-Saharan Africa. • ii. DRE systems are all about empowering communities, promoting energy democracy, and building resilience against climate change. • iii. Unfortunately, there are policy, financial, and technical hurdles that hold back the widespread adoption of DRE in the area. • iv. Various case studies showcase a range of DRE strategies and creative financing solutions. • v. For a successful shift to sustainable energy, integrated policy reforms and regional collaboration are essential.
This study presents a comprehensive ten-year (2015–2024) evaluation of renewable energy development in Cameroon, emphasizing its intersection with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and broader cross-sectoral development outcomes. Combining time-series analysis of national capacity data, policy content evaluation, and SDG-aligned simulation modeling, the paper assesses both technical and institutional trajectories of the energy transition. Key findings reveal a substantial increase in off-grid installations in underserved regions and a notable rise in grid-connected solar capacity—from 0 MW in 2015 to 63 MW by 2024—driven largely by post-2017 policy decentralization. Hydropower remains the dominant source, but the solar sector exhibited accelerated growth, contributing to enhanced rural electrification and public health infrastructure, with 27 % of rural health institutions now electrified. The renewable energy sector generated an estimated 3500 new jobs over the decade. An SDG alignment index applied across five targets indicates moderate but uneven progress, particularly for Goals 7 (affordable and clean energy), 3 (good health and well-being), and 13 (climate action). Scenario-based simulations underscore that policies promoting decentralized innovation and integrated energy planning significantly enhance rural energy access and socio-economic resilience. However, persistent financing barriers and institutional fragmentation constrain broader impact. The study offers a replicable analytical framework for data-driven, SDG-oriented assessment of energy transitions in Sub-Saharan Africa, contributing actionable insights for sustainable energy policy design in low-resource contexts. • Renewable energy in Cameroon grew steadily between 2015 and 2024. • Off-grid solar access expanded, boosting rural electrification progress. • Policy reforms accelerated decentralized energy access and regulation. • RE growth improved health, jobs, and equity across sectors. • A roadmap aligns RE planning with SDG targets for Cameroon.
Nigeria faces an urgent energy challenge marked by chronic electricity shortages, dependence on fossil fuels, and worsening environmental degradation. This study examines the economic and environmental benefits of transitioning to renewable energy in Nigeria, adopting a mixed-methods approach that combines a systematic literature review, policy analysis, and synthesis of empirical case studies. Findings reveal that Nigeria possesses vast potential for solar, wind, biomass, and hydropower, capable of transforming its energy landscape. Economically, the adoption of renewable energy can generate employment, stimulate industrial growth, expand rural electrification, attract investment, and stabilize public finances by reducing vulnerability to global oil price shocks. Environmentally, it can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve air quality, conserve biodiversity, promote sustainable waste management, and enhance resilience to climate variability. Case studies demonstrate the effectiveness of decentralized solar mini-grids, biomass utilization, and hybrid systems in meeting local energy needs; however, persistent barriers, including weak policy enforcement, financing gaps, and infrastructural limitations remain. The study concludes that a comprehensive framework is required, built on policy alignment, financing innovation, institutional strengthening, infrastructure development, and social inclusion. Renewable energy transition thus represents not only a climate responsibility but also a strategic pathway for Nigeria’s sustainable economic and environmental future.
Rooftop solar (RTS) represents a critical component of India’s clean energy transition, offering decentralized generation, reduced transmission losses, and potential resilience benefits. Yet, despite ambitious national targets and substantial technical potential, RTS adoption has lagged behind expectations. This narrative review synthesizes peer-reviewed literature (2019–2025), government program documents, and policy reports to examine the trends, barriers, enablers, economics, regional signals, stakeholder outcomes, and policy implications shaping rooftop solar adoption in India. Findings indicate that commercial and industrial consumers have historically dominated the sector due to favorable tariffs and access to credit, while residential uptake accelerated only after the launch of flagship initiatives such as PM Surya Ghar. Persistent barriers include high upfront costs, affordability gaps, regulatory uncertainty, procedural delays, information asymmetries, and built environment constraints. At the same time, innovations such as simplified subsidy pipelines, digitalized approval portals, DISCOM performance incentives, vendor certification, and emerging business models including RESCO/OPEX and group or virtual net metering demonstrate viable pathways to expand adoption. The review identifies future research needs in program evaluation, financial innovation, grid integration, apartment governance, and quality assurance, and emphasizes the importance of stable regulatory frameworks, inclusive finance, and community-oriented models.
The shift from fossil-based energy systems to renewable sources like solar, wind, and hydro presents both opportunities and challenges for developing countries aiming to expand energy access, promote economic growth, and meet climate goals. This study examines the technological, financial, institutional, and governance aspects of clean energy transitions, focusing on regional disparities and implications for low- and middle-income economies. A systematic review of literature was carried out using the SPAR-4-SLR methodology across Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. Only peer-reviewed studies published in English from 2009 to 2025 were included, guided by four research questions: (1) technological and resource endowments, (2) capital structuring and financial market dynamics, (3) institutional and policy frameworks, and (4) decentralized, digital energy governance. Search terms were tailored for each theme, and studies were classified by topic, region, and methodology. Results show that decentralized renewable systems—especially solar micro-grids—offer affordable alternatives to fossil fuels in rural and off-grid areas, enhancing job creation, energy security, and poverty reduction. Examples from Kenya, India, and Southeast Asia highlight the importance of policy consistency, financial innovation, and institutional preparedness in promoting clean energy deployment. Still, ongoing challenges such as high initial costs, infrastructure gaps, and limited technical skills continue to hinder progress in many regions. • Institutional and financial factors outweigh resource availability in clean energy. • Local policy tools often outperform broad international frameworks of clean energy. • Blended finance reduces cost barriers in early-stage clean energy projects. • Inclusive planning links clean energy to health and equity gains. • Technology transfer works best with local training and governance support.
Background and Research Aims Community Resource Management Areas (CREMAs) are Ghana’s decentralized approach to biodiversity conservation and sustainable natural resource governance. Despite their institutional legality and community support, CREMAs face persistent financial instability, largely due to donor dependency and the absence of sustainable internal funding mechanisms. In contrast, Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs) have emerged as resilient, community-driven financial systems that promote local livelihoods. This study asks: Can communities sustainably finance their own conservation through grassroots mechanisms like VSLAs? Grounded in Community-Based Natural Resource Management (CBNRM), collective action theory, and informal rural finance systems, the aim is to explore the feasibility of integrating VSLAs into CREMA governance as a model for localized conservation finance. Methods A qualitative case study was employed across four CREMAs in Ghana’s Black Volta River and Western Wildlife corridors. Sixteen focus group discussions were conducted with CREMA executive members, community leaders, VSLA participants, and women and youth groups. Thematic analysis identified perceptions, challenges, and opportunities for financing CREMA activities through VSLAs. Results Findings indicate strong community acceptance of CREMAs, but significant underfunding limits their conservation impact. Conversely, VSLAs were described as trusted, inclusive, and capable of supporting household and community needs. Participants advocated integrating VSLAs into CREMA governance with transparency safeguards and shared control mechanisms. Women and youth, central to VSLA operations, were identified as key stakeholders for advancing inclusive conservation finance. Conclusion Integrating VSLAs into CREMA structures presents a promising model for bottom-up, sustainable financing of conservation activities in Ghana. It builds on existing community trust systems, enhances participation, and reduces reliance on external donors. Implications for Conservation This study contributes a novel community-based green financing framework that links informal rural finance with decentralized conservation governance. It offers replicable insights for scaling localized conservation finance in other resource-dependent, tropical contexts across Sub-Saharan Africa.
Open access
Conservation, Biodiversity, and Resource Management
Nkanyiso Msweli, Gideon Ude Nnachi, Coneth Graham Richards
Electricity access deficits remain acute in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), where more than 600 million people lack reliable supply. Green hydrogen, produced through renewable-powered electrolysis, is increasingly recognized as a transformative energy carrier for decentralized systems due to its capacity for long-duration storage, sector coupling, and near-zero carbon emissions. This review adheres strictly to the PRISMA 2020 methodology, examining 190 records and synthesizing 80 peer-reviewed articles and industry reports released from 2010 to 2025. The review covers hydrogen production processes, hybrid renewable integration, techno-economic analysis, environmental compromises, global feasibility, and enabling policy incentives. The findings show that Alkaline (AEL) and PEM electrolyzers are immediately suitable for off-grid scenarios, whereas Solid Oxide (SOEC) and Anion Exchange Membrane (AEM) electrolyzers present high potential for future deployment. For Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), the levelized costs of hydrogen (LCOH) are in the range of EUR5.0–7.7/kg. Nonetheless, estimates from the learning curve indicate that these costs could fall to between EUR1.0 and EUR1.5 per kg by 2050, assuming there is (i) continued public support for the technology innovation, (ii) appropriate, flexible, and predictable regulation, (iii) increased demand for hydrogen, and (iv) a stable and long-term policy framework. Environmental life-cycle assessments indicate that emissions are nearly zero, but they also highlight serious concerns regarding freshwater usage, land occupation, and dependence on platinum group metals. Namibia, South Africa, and Kenya exhibit considerable promise in the early stages of development, while Niger demonstrates the feasibility of deploying modular, community-scale systems in challenging conditions. The study concludes that green hydrogen cannot be treated as an integrated solution but needs to be regarded as part of blended off-grid systems. To improve its role, targeted material innovation, blended finance, and policies bridging export-oriented applications to community-scale access must be established. It will then be feasible to ensure that hydrogen contributes meaningfully to the attainment of Sustainable Development Goal 7 in SSA.
James Kwame Mensah, Eugénie L. Birch, Zechariah Langnel
This study explores alternative energy sources in informal settlements in Ghana, with a focus on their contribution to achieving Sustainable Development Goal Seven (SDG 7). Drawing on qualitative data from Agbogbloshie, Chorkor, and Avenor in Accra, the research identifies solar and biogas as key emerging solutions addressing energy poverty in these underserved areas. Despite universal access claims, residents continue to rely on unsafe, polluting fuels due to high tariffs and infrastructural exclusion. Findings reveal community-driven transitions to decentralized energy systems, with solar panels and biogas digesters offering cleaner, cheaper alternatives. However, challenges related to maintenance, financing, and space persist. The study underscores the importance of tailored, inclusive energy strategies for informal settlements to achieve equitable and sustainable urban energy futures in Ghana.
This deliverable examines political economy barriers to climate policy through sectoral entry points that can make transitions more just, feasible, and developmentcompatible. It focuses on three areas where governance and politics strongly shape outcomes: coal transition strategies, carbon pricing, and international finance. Across these domains, the report draws on seven peer-reviewed studies and working papers to highlight five strategic entry points: i) decentralized just transition planning, ii) clean industrial development, iii) revenue recycling with social protection, iv) strategic framing and coalition building for carbon taxes, and v) equity-focused international finance reforms. Coal transitions are shown to depend on domestic contexts. Comparative analysis of 12 coal-relevant countries reveals six distinct clusters of political economy dynamics, ranging from civil society-driven transition in South Africa to contested transition pathways in India and Indonesia. Case studies stress the need for regionally tailored approaches. Carbon pricing is politically viable when embedded in broader fiscal or political agendas. Evidence from 46 global policy attempts underlines the role of coalitions, leadership, and framing co-benefits. Microsimulations for 16 Latin American and Caribbean countries show regressive impacts, with many highly affected households lacking social protection. The international finance analysis assesses the G7 pledge and Clean Energy Transition Partnership, tracking shifts in public finance for energy across income groups. While fossil fuel support has declined, clean energy funding has not risen proportionally, remains loan-heavy, and is concentrated in wealthier nations. Low-income countries receive negligible concessional flows, while G7 members continue expanding domestic fossil infrastructure. The study recommends embedding distributive justice into finance governance, scaling grant-based clean energy support for the Global South and aligning domestic actions with international commitments.
Energy access and utilization remain highly unequal across sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) countries, despite the region's vast natural resources and growing energy needs. This study examines the differential inequalities in energy access and utilization in selected SSA countries, focusing on demand and supply-side constraints, technological opportunities, and the role of government and private sector interventions. The review paper highlights the persistent energy poverty affecting over 600 million people in SSA, particularly in rural areas, where reliance on traditional biomass remains prevalent. Infrastructure deficiencies, high energy costs, and inadequate policy frameworks further exacerbate these inequalities. The paper underscores the critical role of governments in formulating effective energy policies, implementing subsidies, and fostering public-private partnerships to expand sustainable energy access. The private sector's involvement in financing and deploying decentralized energy solutions is identified as a key driver of progress. Recommendations include strengthening policy and regulatory frameworks, expanding regional power pools, investing in decentralized energy solutions, and promoting financial inclusion through innovative funding mechanisms. By addressing these challenges, SSA can move towards achieving equitable and sustainable energy access, fostering economic growth, and improving overall quality of life as key objectives of achieving the sustainable development goals (SDGs).
Type of the article: Research Article AbstractDecentralization and renewable energy have gained significant global attention due to their potential to enhance energy security, promote sustainability, and democratize energy access. This study aims to provide a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of research trends, key contributors, and thematic developments in the field of the decentralization of energy sources and their renewability. The research methodology involves a bibliometric analysis based on data extracted from the Scopus database, covering publications from 1973 to 2025. The analysis reveals exponential growth in research output, particularly after 2014, with over 3,700 publications recorded in 2023 alone. Citation trends indicate that foundational studies on decentralized microgrids and distributed energy systems remain highly influential, while recent works on blockchain-based energy trading and AI-driven energy management are gaining prominence. The study identifies China (11.7% of total publications), the United States (6.5%), and India (5.7%) as the leading contributors, with significant research activity also observed in European countries. Additionally, journals such as Applied Energy, Renewable Energy, and Energies serve as the primary publication platforms in this domain. Thematic analysis highlights a shift from bioenergy and land-use studies toward smart grids, energy storage, artificial intelligence, and decentralized finance for energy markets. Furthermore, co-authorship and international collaboration have increased significantly, with 25% of papers involving multi-country research efforts. Keyword analysis indicates growing research interest in emerging topics such as hydrogen energy, demand-side management, and digitalization in decentralized energy systems. These findings underscore the increasing interdisciplinary nature of decentralized energy research, integrating technological, economic, and policy dimensions. AcknowledgmentThis study was prepared as part of the project IZURZ1_224119/1 (Swiss National Science Foundation).
This paper examines the challenges hindering rooftop solar (RTS) deployment in India and explores how a U.S.-India partnership can unlock its full potential. RTS, a decentralized and scalable renewable energy solution, is critical to India’s renewable energy goals, including its target of 40 GW of RTS capacity under the National Solar Mission by 2022 which remains unmet with only 10.9 GW installed as of 2023. Key barriers include high upfront costs, limited financing options, policy fragmentation, and resistance from distribution companies (DISCOMs). The paper identifies actionable solutions, leveraging U.S. expertise in innovative financing models, net metering policies, and grid modernization. Collaborative initiatives, such as USAID-backed loan guarantees and green bonds, could alleviate financing gaps, while technical assistance from the U.S. can support DISCOMs in integrating distributed solar. The paper also emphasizes the need for performance-based incentives, consumer awareness programs, and community solar models to accelerate adoption. A successful U.S.-India collaboration can address systemic challenges, enhance RTS scalability, and contribute to global climate goals. By leveraging shared expertise and resources, this partnership offers a pathway to strengthen India’s renewable energy transition while fostering bilateral cooperation in clean energy development.
This study investigates the impact of financial, trade, and economic openness on energy consumption, focusing on renewable, nonrenewable, and fossil energy sources in Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) nations. The BRI framework, introduced by China in 2013, emphasizes economic collaboration and infrastructure development, including renewable energy projects. As participating nations navigate energy transitions to address climate change and achieve sustainable development, understanding the role of openness is crucial. Motivated by the dual challenges of energy security and environmental sustainability, this study explores how openness influences energy consumption patterns and identifies pathways for policy intervention. Using data from 2004 to 2020, the study employs advanced econometric techniques, including Cross-Sectionally Augmented Autoregressive Distributed Lag (CS-ARDL) and Nonlinear ARDL models, to examine short- and long-term relationships. Control variables such as urbanization, financial development, and education are integrated to provide a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics. The analysis reveals that financial openness positively impacts energy consumption across all types, with a significant contribution to renewable energy in the long term. Trade openness facilitates technology transfer and renewable energy adoption, while economic openness through foreign direct investment (FDI) supports clean energy projects but also sustains fossil fuel reliance in some contexts. Urbanization drives nonrenewable energy demand but offers opportunities for renewable integration contingent on governance quality. Education enhances renewable energy consumption by fostering a skilled workforce and knowledge development. The findings suggest key policy implications. First, financial openness should be directed toward green finance and renewable energy investments. Second, trade policies must focus on reducing barriers to renewable technology imports and fostering global collaborations. Third, economic openness should prioritize sustainable FDI in clean energy sectors. Fourth, urban planning must incorporate decentralized energy systems and green technologies. Finally, investing in education and institutional reforms is essential to drive innovation and ensure effective governance. This study contributes to the discourse on energy transitions in BRI nations, emphasizing the critical role of openness and offering actionable policies to balance economic growth with sustainability.
Meselu Tegenie Mellaku, Yibeltal T. Wassie, Pernille Seljom, Muyiwa S. Adaramola
The economy of East Africa (EA) is striving for a structural transformation with a strong focus on expanding the manufacturing sector. However, challenges related to modern and reliable energy supply have hindered the sector's growth performance across the region. This systematic review explores the potential, opportunities, and challenges to integrating decentralized renewable energy solutions to bridge the energy supply-demand gap in the EA's manufacturing sector. It also provides up-to-date insights into the extent of integration of decentralized renewable energy technologies in the EA manufacturing sector. Relevant data and information for the review were retrieved from 46 references, including databases and web-based sources. The findings highlight that the EA region possesses abundant untapped solar, wind, and bioenergy resources that can close the sector's energy supply-demand gap. The review also reveals that renewable energy solutions are becoming increasingly techno-economically competitive with conventional energy sources for hybrid and stand-alone applications in the manufacturing sector. However, several challenges impede the integration of decentralized renewable energy technologies in the sector, including a lack of enabling regulatory frameworks, limited financing options, limited access to renewable technologies , and a lack of skilled labor. Nonetheless, international initiatives aimed at supporting developing countries in combating climate change can help overcome the region's financial and technological constraints by facilitating technology transfer, capacity building, and offering affordable financing options. Furthermore, the ambition of East African nations to expand their manufacturing sectors presents a stimulating opportunity to accelerate the integration of decentralized renewable energy technologies into the sector.
This paper examines the role of advanced biofuels in promoting energy access and economic growth in rural areas, with a focus on developing countries. Advanced biofuels, produced from non-food biomass sources such as agricultural residues, algae, and waste, have the potential to reduce rural energy poverty while creating economic opportunities. Through case studies of successful initiatives in countries like India and Brazil, this study highlights how decentralized biofuel production has improved energy access, created local employment, and enhanced agricultural value chains. Notable findings include the establishment of community-led biofuel plants that reduced reliance on imported fossil fuels and generated sustainable incomes for farmers by utilizing crop residues. The study also identifies key challenges such as limited infrastructure, access to financing, and policy support, while offering actionable recommendations to scale advanced biofuel adoption. Overall, advanced biofuels present a promising pathway to sustainable rural development by enhancing energy security, reducing environmental impact, and fostering economic growth.