In the UK, energy access is often taken for granted, yet it plays a crucial role in various aspects of daily life and sustainable development globally. Despite its importance, achieving universal energy access remains challenging. An estimated 750 million people worldwide still lack electricity, primarily in rural areas where traditional grid expansion is not feasible.
Community energy systems offer a potential solution to this issue. These systems use decentralized technologies like mini-grids and stand-alone renewables to provide localized energy solutions. Dr. Alycia Leonard highlights that such systems can be greener and more reliable than conventional alternatives, especially in regions with unreliable grids like Ghana.
However, implementing community energy systems comes with challenges. Professor Stephanie Hirmer points out that not all communities are equipped to manage local energy projects without support. Additionally, balancing affordability and cost recovery is difficult for these systems compared to national grids.
Research conducted since 2022 in Kenya and Zambia has identified key barriers to community energy implementation. These include governance issues, financial sustainability concerns, and equity gaps in planning processes.
To address these challenges, experts recommend adopting context-appropriate governance models, fostering productive uses of energy, providing patient capital through long-term finance options, redefining value-for-money assessments to include long-term impacts, and embedding inclusive practices throughout project stages.
Despite the hurdles, successful community energy projects can be transformative. The Mpeketoni microgrid in Kenya is an example where local enterprises benefited from increased productivity and income growth due to improved access to electrical equipment.
The commentary draws on evidence presented to the UK International Development Committee's Inquiry on Aid for Community-led Energy by Dr. Alycia Leonard and Professor Stephanie Hirmer alongside co-authors from Oxford University and other institutions.