Session: 17-01: Poster Presentations

Paper Number: 164724

164724 - Hybrid Mini-Grids and Rural Energy Poverty: Sustainable Solutions for Socioeconomic Development in Upper Blinkwater, South Africa 

Abstract: 

Energy poverty remains one of the most persistent challenges facing rural communities in South Africa, where limited access to modern, reliable energy sources restricts economic opportunities, educational advancement, and overall well-being. In many off-grid rural areas, households continue to rely on traditional energy sources such as firewood, paraffin, and coal for cooking, heating, and lighting, which contribute to environmental degradation, health problems, and economic inefficiency. While the South African government has made strides in expanding access to electricity through national grid extensions, many remote communities like Upper Blinkwater remain unconnected, highlighting the need for innovative, decentralized energy solutions. This study investigates the potential of hybrid mini-grids combinations of renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and biomass with backup generators as a viable solution to alleviate energy poverty and drive sustainable socio-economic transformation in Upper Blinkwater, an off-grid community located in the Eastern Cape province.

Data for this study was collected from 53 households in Upper Blinkwater through a structured questionnaire, designed to assess household energy use, expenditure, and socio-economic conditions both before and after the implementation of a hybrid mini-grid system. The study employed the quantitative analysis of energy consumption patterns and qualitative interviews to capture the broader impacts on livelihoods, health, and gender dynamics. Pre- and post-intervention data were compared to evaluate the socio-economic changes that occurred following the electrification of the community.

The findings reveal significant improvements in energy access and household well-being. After the mini-grid system was implemented, there was a marked reduction in per capita energy expenditure, with many households experiencing lower energy costs due to reduced reliance on expensive and inefficient traditional fuels. The adoption of modern appliances, such as refrigerators, televisions, and cooking equipment, significantly increased, improving both domestic efficiency and quality of life. Women, in particular, reported a reduction in domestic labor, as tasks such as cooking and heating became less time-consuming and energy-intensive. Moreover, the introduction of hybrid mini-grid electricity has facilitated new income-generating activities, particularly among women entrepreneurs. With access to reliable energy, these entrepreneurs have been able to establish small businesses such as food stalls, clothing shops, and tailoring services, leading to greater economic diversification within the community. The ability to store perishable goods and medicines has further improved health outcomes, as households can now refrigerate food and properly store medications, enhancing food security and chronic illness management. However, despite these positive outcomes, some challenges remain. Firewood continues to be used by many households for cooking and heating, largely due to cultural preferences and the cost of modern fuels. Additionally, affordability remains a concern for certain households, as some still struggle to pay for electricity, underscoring the need for targeted policy interventions to make energy more accessible to all members of the community.

This study underscores the broader role of decentralized renewable energy solutions in addressing energy poverty and driving sustainable development in rural South Africa. By fostering socio-economic transformation through improved energy access, hybrid mini-grids offer an innovative path forward for rural electrification. The findings from this study contribute valuable insights for policymakers and energy practitioners seeking to scale up renewable energy solutions in off-grid communities, aligning with global goals of sustainable energy development.

Presenting Author: Mahali Elizabeth Lesala University of Fort Hare

Presenting Author Biography: Dr. Mahali Elizabeth Lesala is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow and emerging lecturer. Her research interests focuses on rural development, poverty reduction and general well-being and quality of life advancements of rural poor. Her current research explores the impacts of energy access on household livelihoods, economic development, and gender empowerment. Dr. Lesala is particularly interested in decentralized renewable energy solutions, such as hybrid mini-grids, and their potential to address energy poverty while fostering sustainable development. Her work also emphasizes the role of policy interventions in making energy solutions more affordable and accessible, aiming to contribute to socio-economic transformation and improve living standards in rural areas. She has contributed to several publications on energy poverty and off-grid energy solutions, published in Sustainability and Energies. In addition to her research, Dr. Lesala has taught at the University of Fort Hare, supervised numerous student research projects, and mentored academic development. She also serves as a reviewer for academic journals. She collaborates with different stakeholders to assess and address the social impacts of development projects, ensuring alignment with community needs and long-term sustainability.