Solar power generation for ICT and sustainable development in emerging economies

Abstract

Purpose -The purpose of this paper is to systematically examine and draw attention to the potential benefits of solar power generation for access to and use of information and communication technologies (ICT) aimed at sustainable development in emerging economies. Design/methodology/approach -Electricity plays a crucial role in the development and use of ICT and in the process of striving to achieve sustainable development in emerging economies. It has been shown that electrical energy is intrinsically linked to economic, environmental and social dimensions of sustainable development. An extensive analysis of the major contribution of solar electricity in various sectors such as economic, social and environmental benefits is provided. The paper concludes with a discussion on current status of solar electricity in major emerging economies, their planning policies and strategies for promoting solar power generation for increased access to ICT by people and sustainable development of society. Findings -The demand for electricity in residential, commercial and industrial sectors in developing countries (emerging economies) is likely to increase, both as a result of increase in population and expanding industrialization. It remains amongst others, a growing challenge for these nations to obtain and put in place reliable and secured electricity supplies, for accessing ICT and to work towards achieving sustainability. The important issues that must be considered and addressed for the successful implementation of solar electricity programs for sustainability and wellbeing in developing nations are pointed out. Practical implications -The paper shows that the problems of lack of qualified solar technicians and established Photovoltaic (PV) markets and business modes, renewable (solar) energy education have to be addressed. Other issues include appreciation of solar electricity as one of the major energy component, lowering initial cost of the PV technology, availability of finance mechanisms for customers, import tax exemption and regarding electricity as one of the basic needs like food, shelter and clothing. Overhaul of existing systems needs to take place in order to provide the means to deal with some of these issues. Originality/value -Availability of power remains crucial for development in emerging markets. Solar electricity is of major interest for the energy sector in developing or emerging economies because it offers the possibility of generating renewable electricity using sunlight -a resource that is widely and freely available in most, if not all, developing countries. This paper raises awareness about this in a unique way and identifies problems faced by the sectors. To address some of these challenges without compromising the goal of sustainability and development, it is important that low carbon emitting electrical energy sources such as solar electricity are given high priorities by policy makers, industries and research and development institutions in emerging countries. Some innovative suggestions are p...

Diffusion of residential RT solar – is lack of funds the real issue?

“…Stone et al (2010) have studied the unreliability of financial incentives as motivators through an extension of the self-determination theory. Lack of qualified solar technicians impacted self-efficacy beliefs and SPV diffusion (Paul and Uhomoibhi, 2012). Urpelainen and Yoon (2017) investigated the role of product demonstrations in creating the market for solar technology in rural India.…”

Diffusion of adoption of solar energy – a structural model analysis

“…The government should launch subsidies and speed up the diffusion of SPV in rural areas which can be helpful in agriculture sector (Bankanga, 2011). Paul and Uhomoibhi (2012) recommended that for significant penetration of solar electricity in rural areas and urban areas without reliable grid electricity training should be provided to skillfully qualified solar electrical technicians, in both urban and rural areas. Renewable (solar) energy courses should be introduced to all people, at all education levels and through all possible modes of education.…”

Globalization and Sustainable Development: A Conceptual Model

“…The donation of computers to rural schools is a noble idea only when it is accompanied by policies which seek to provide reliable and affordable energy sources in order to achieve sustainable development through technology (Kabanda, 2012). In the short-term, there is need is to strengthen institutions that are directly linked to matters of trade, while in the long term capacity should be extended to all government ministries (Paul & Uhomoibhi, 2012).…”