A Review of a Successful Unsubsidized Market-Based Rural Solar Development Initiative in Laikipia District, Central Kenya

Abstract

ABSTRACT:The development of renewable energy technologies (RETs) in many areas far from grid-based electricity have primarily involved solar photovoltaics (SPVs) which tap solar radiation to provide heat, light, hot water, electricity, and cooling for homes, businesses, and industry. A study on RETs took place in the Wiyumiririe Location of Laikipia District (north-central Kenya), a rich agricultural region. To explore this solar initiative in such a remote part of the country, a purposive randomized convenience sample of 246 households was selected and landowner interviews conducted, followed by field visits and observations. Although more than half of the households visited had SPV installations, solar energy was found to contribute only 18% of household estimated total energy needs; most residents still primarily relying on traditional energy sources. Several types of solar panels of different capacities and costs were utilized. Many landowners had at least one or two rooms using solar energy for household lighting, for appliance charging and to power radio and television. Almost all respondents appreciated that solar energy was clean renewable energy that greatly improved household living conditions; gave them some prestige; was easy to use and maintain; and was available year around. Although such significant benefits were associated with SPVs, only about 40% of residents interviewed were somehow satisfied with its development. Respondents expressed specific developmental initiatives that were closely associated with the availability of solar energy. Nevertheless, a number of challenges were raised associated with SPVs primarily investment capital and equipment costs and maintenance. As solutions to capital building will not solely rely on subsidies or individual farmer inputs, strategies must be found to mobilize the essential and tested tools for success including sustainable capital generation, building local institutions and capacities that integrate rural people, local participation in rural development activities and public education and training.

Predictive Factors Associated with Solar Energy Development in Laikipia District Central Kenya

“…Availability of capital will continue to be a big challenge in this community for a long time as their sources of income are agrarian-based, expand slowly and are highly dependent on the regional climate (Saghil 2002). The amount of solar energy generated is dependent on panel capacity which on average is very low for most households and therefore not adequate for their solar energy needs as discussed in Wambuguh (2013). How the amount generated is used is a contentious issue especially during holidays when most household members are home.…”

“…The findings of the study allowed the development of a statistical model general enough to be applicable elsewhere in the development of alternative energy resources particularly those based on solar input. The study took place in the Wiyumiririe Location of Laikipia District in north-central Kenya which has previously been described by Wambuguh (2013). The dominant landuse is the district is large-scale ranching (between 50-70% of district), followed by pastoralism (13% of the district-more confined in the north and the northeastern parts) and increasingly, by small-scale farming (5-10% of the district).…”