In an innovative exploration of energy access in informal settlements, recent research highlights the transformative potential of off-grid solar solutions for enhancing productivity in economically disadvantaged urban areas. Conducted by Penlope Yaguma from the Department of Science, Technology, Engineering and Public Policy at University College London, the study focuses on two projects implemented between 2019 and 2022 in a young, unelectrified informal settlement in Cape Town, South Africa.
The research underscores the critical role of productive use of energy (PUE) in fostering economic growth. By utilizing household surveys and interviews, the study revealed that the limited energy options available to residents confined their usage primarily to domestic applications. However, the installation of solar microgrids marked a significant turning point. “The microgrids provided reliable refrigeration and lighting for small businesses,” Yaguma noted, emphasizing how these improvements enhanced operational efficiency and fostered a sense of energy autonomy among entrepreneurs.
The findings indicate that the microgrids not only improved the functionality of small enterprises but also stimulated aspirations for growth. This is particularly crucial in informal settlements, where energy poverty often stifles entrepreneurial potential. The research highlights seasonal and temporal variations in energy consumption, which calls for flexible demand-responsive energy systems. Such adaptability could influence the design and scaling of future off-grid solar solutions, presenting a compelling opportunity for the construction sector to engage in developing infrastructure that meets these dynamic needs.
Despite these advancements, the study also points out limitations inherent in the ‘service-based’ provision model. Yaguma explains, “While the model was beneficial, it restricted productive uses to those that fit within its framework, and the high costs of appliances hindered broader adoption.” This barrier to scalability poses a challenge for off-grid solar providers, necessitating innovative financing approaches and robust policy support to foster growth in these communities.
The implications of this research extend beyond the immediate context of Cape Town. As cities worldwide grapple with energy access challenges, the insights gained from this study could inform the development of similar off-grid solutions in urban informal settlements globally. The construction sector stands to benefit significantly from this shift, as demand for infrastructure that supports off-grid energy systems is likely to increase.
Published in ‘Environmental Research: Energy’, or ‘Umweltforschung: Energie’ in English, this study serves as a call to action for stakeholders in energy and construction to collaborate on sustainable solutions that not only address energy poverty but also empower local economies. The path forward may involve a combination of technological innovation, policy reform, and community engagement, all aimed at unlocking the potential of off-grid solar to transform lives in informal settlements. For more insights, you can visit lead_author_affiliation.
