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harNeSSINg reNeWaBLe eNergy teChNoLogy for INNovatIoN aNd SuStaINaBLe deveLoPMeNt IN the PoSt-CovId-19 era
Sibanda, M.L.
University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa Instagram, TikTok and X: Melissa_lihle
Facebook: Melissa Lubelihle Sibanda
LinkedIn: Melissa Sibanda
Correspondence: melissasibanda3@gmail.com
abstract
The coronavirus pandemic has heightened the pervasive issues of poverty, inequality, and social exclusion, particularly in developing countries. According to World Health Organization (2022), the COVID-19 pandemic was identified as a key contributing factor to the slowing progress towards global access to energy. It is indicated that in 2022 about 733 million people still lived without access to electricity, whereas 2.4 billion people still used fuels harmful to their health and the environment for cooking (WHO 2022). Moreover, the resulting economic disruption underscores the critical need for innovative solutions that promote sustainable development and economic resilience. This paper seeks to explore the role of innovation and alternative energy systems in addressing the challenges exacerbated by the coronavirus pandemic, emphasising alternative the potential of energy systems to drive economic growth and development in impoverished communities. The concept of innovation for development (I4D) serves as a framework for supporting technological advancements and creative problem solving to enhance energy access, reduce environmental impact, and stimulate economic activities.
This paper employed a systematic review as a research approach, and the findings indicated that in the context of developing countries, the adoption of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind is not only environmentally imperative but also economically beneficial. Results indicated that the investment of Rwanda, a developing country, in off-grid solar systems as a source of energy to the poor significantly improved livelihoods and promoted local economic activities. Furthermore, in Tanzania, another developing country, a similar approach to renewable energy technology through off-grid solar initiatives not only expanded energy access to remote communities but also fostered small businesses and enhanced educational opportunities. The incorporation of renewable energy technology as a tool for I4D ensures communities achieve sustainable development, enhances energy security, and fosters economic growth, thereby creating more resilient and inclusive societies.
Keywords: innovation, innovation for development (I4D), renewable energy technology (RET ), sustainable development, post-COVID-19.
Introduction
Energy is a crucial element for human livelihoods and ultimately survival. Statistically, it is reported that 95% of humans living without electricity and non-solid fuels live in Africa and developing countries in Asia (A.T. Energy Transition Institute, 2018). Furthermore, inadequate access to modern and affordable energy systems has been identified as a key factor contributing to the concerning poverty levels in African and Asian developing countries (Murshed & Ozturk, 2023). According to Saghir (2005) modern forms of energy, with electricity being the most significantly utilised form of modern energy, are essential in alleviating poverty, promoting economic growth, supporting the provision of social services and ultimately stimulating sustainable human development. Notably, the coronavirus pandemic posed dire challenges globally which drastically disrupted social and economic systems. This has particularly impacted global energy access, which is a crucial factor in economic and human development.
As asserted by World Health Organization (WHO) (2021), post COVID-19 the severity of the economic fallout has disproportionately affected developing countries, where existing issues of poverty, inequality, and social exclusion have been exacerbated. Additionally, the pandemic has been identified as the main factor in slowing progress toward universal energy access (WHO 2021). The United Nations Environmental Program (2024) regards lack of access to energy systems as a detrimental constraint to human and economic development. Recent reports, as indicated by the WHO (2022), reveal that nearly 733 million people still lack access to electricity, while 2.4 billion use traditional fuels for cooking, posing significant health and environmental risks. The African Union Development Agency (2024) notes that energy is critical for economic growth and human development. The pandemic has underscored the urgent need for innovative, sustainable solutions to enhance energy access and economic resilience.
Post-COVID-19 era: Challenges and innovations in renewable energy technology adoption
The post-COVID-19 era presents unique challenges and opportunities for the adoption of renewable energy
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