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of RET in different contexts. These case studies highlight the diverse applications and impacts of RET across various regions and provide valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities for scaling up renewable energy adoption.
Rwanda
Rwanda has made significant strides in expanding energy access through the adoption of off-grid solar systems. This approach has been particularly effective in rural areas where extending the national grid is not economically feasible. According to Green (2018) Rwanda’s investment in off-grid solar technology has significantly improved the quality of life in rural communities by providing reliable electricity for lighting, communication, and small-scale businesses. This has led to increased economic activities and improved educational outcomes, as students can study after dark, and small businesses can operate more efficiently.
The success of Rwanda’s off-grid solar initiatives can be attributed to several factors, including strong government support, innovative financing models, and community engagement (Blimpo and Cosgrove-Davies 2019). As asserted by the Government of Rwanda (2021), several policies and programmes have been implemented to promote the adoption of off-grid solar systems, including subsidies, tax incentives, and capacity-building initiatives In addition, Sharma et al. (2019) indicated that innovative financing models, such as pay-as-you-go (PAYG) systems, have made it possible for low-income households to access solar energy by allowing them to pay for electricity in small, affordable increments.
Lastly, community engagement and awareness-raising campaigns have played a vital role in promoting the adoption of off-grid solar systems by educating communities about the benefits of clean energy and encouraging local ownership and participation (Blimpo and Cosgrove-Davies 2019).
Tanzania
Similarly, to Rwanda, Tanzania has also adopted off-grid solar initiatives to expand energy access to remote and underserved communities. Schiereck (2020) highlights that these initiatives have not only provided electricity to households but also supported the growth of small
businesses, enhanced educational opportunities, and im- proved public health by reducing reliance on kerosene for lighting. The success of these projects demonstrates the potential of RET to drive sustainable development and reduce energy poverty in developing countries. The World Bank (2021) indicated that a number of factors have contributed to the success of Tanzania’s off-grid solar ini- tiatives, which include strong government support, inno- vative business models, and PPPs.
The Tanzanian government has implemented several poli- cies and programmes to promote the adoption of off-grid solar systems, including subsidies, tax incentives, and ca- pacity-building initiatives. In addition, innovative business models, such as solar leasing and community-based en- ergy cooperatives, have made it possible for low-income households to access solar energy by reducing the upfront costs of solar systems (Sharma et al. 2019). Lastly, the World Bank (2021) highlighted the importance of PPPs’ role in scaling up the deployment of off-grid solar systems by mobilising resources, building local capacity, and fostering innovation.
Latin America
It is important to note that Latin America has emerged as a leader in renewable energy implementation, particularly in solar and wind energy (see Figure 3). According to Nasirov et al. (2021) renewable energy projects in Latin America have significantly contributed to job creation and economic growth, particularly in rural areas. In Chile, for example, Nasirov et al. (2021) indicate that the adoption and implementation of large-scale solar projects has created thousands of jobs and stimulated local economic activities by providing reliable electricity to industries and businesses. Similarly, in Brazil the deployment of wind energy projects has created jobs, reduced electricity costs, and contributed to the country’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions (IRENA 2021b).
Notably, many countries in Latin America have implemented policies and programmes to promote the deployment of renewable energy, including feed-in tariffs, renewable energy auctions, and tax incentives. Moreover, innovative financing models, such as green bonds and PPPs, have made it possible to attract private investment and reduce the cost of renewable energy projects (IRENA 2021a).
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