Improving Energy Access for Displaced Populations
An institutional analysis for the potential of community solar mini-grids in refugee camps
E.G. Demir (TU Delft - Technology, Policy and Management)
R.W. Kunneke – Coach (TU Delft - Economics of Technology and Innovation)
D.J. Scholten – Mentor (TU Delft - Economics of Technology and Innovation)
T. Hoppe – Graduation committee member (TU Delft - Organisation & Governance)
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Abstract
There is a pressing need for sustainable energy solutions in refugee camps. Community solar mini-grids, with their costs, reliability, and ease of installation can meet this energy need and contribute to the development and empowerment of camp residents. This research aims to answer the question of "To what extent can community-based governance approaches for solar mini-grids provide energy access in refugee camps?". A case study is conducted by applying the Institutional Analysis and Design (IAD) framework to understand the decision-making processes regarding energy provision in the Kigeme refugee camp. Desk research and expert interviews are conducted to understand the interactions between the actors, outcomes of policy decisions, and challenges of using solar mini-grids in displacement settings. The results show that giving the ownership of the system to refugee communities or a cooperative of camp residents is an ambitious goal due to political and institutional reasons. However, a sense of ownership can be created by using participatory activities during planning, design, implementation, and operation and maintenance of the system to increase the resilience of refugees and improve the sustainability of the system.