Impacts of public solar PV electrification on rural micro-enterprises: The case of Ghana

摘要: Abstract Micro-enterprises are a key component in rural enterprise creation and income generation. In areas far removed from grid-electricity, public solar photovoltaic (PV) electrification projects have served useful purposes by contributing to improve the economic activities of micro-enterprises beyond daylight hours. Through fee-for-service approach some Ghana were provided with access PV systems enhance their output. It is expected that effect on output would be research interest. However, relationship under-researched. Hence, there lack data particularly quantitative ones show benefits can derived sustainable use electrifiy micro-enterprises. Using systematic sampling developing set enterprise-level indicators, without surveyed eight communities five regions Ghana. The results revealed cost avoided using enterprises instead kerosene lanterns was US$1–5/month. established statistically significant association between lighting additional after sunset US$ 5–12/day grocery (merchandise) enterprises. Without external solar-electrified enterprises, businesses about two night vendors affected. Further impacts savings study discussed affordability, factors preventing extension working hours sustainability issues.