Bringing Power to the People of Uganda: Determinants of Solar Photovoltaics Adoption in Uganda

Abstract

This paper examines the factors determining the adoption and use of solar photovoltaic (PVs) technologies in Uganda using detailed Uganda 2018/2019 Living Standards Measurement Survey (LSMS) household data. The data were analyzed with a Probit model and a Multivariate Probit model. We found that the major drivers of solar PVs use in Uganda are: savings, income, education, age of household head, and household size. However, households in urban areas, households with access to grid electricity, households with reliable grid electricity supply, and female-headed households are less likely to adopt solar PVs. The study recommends that the government should promote awareness of solar energy and establish credit schemes for solar provision to lessen the burden of upfront investment in solar.