Confronting Energy Poverty- Ameni Grid Baseline Case
Background
How can development partners address energy poverty amidst environmental degradation? By funding increased clean/ sustainable energy access. And how can a consulting firm play a role? Through evidence-based recommendations like those that FRIENDS Consult did in 2012 when it was hired by GiZ to conduct a baseline study of clean & renewable power access, to aid grid power extension in Ameni Parish, Soroti district.
GiZ’s Promotion of Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Program (PREEEP), sought to collaborate in extending grid power to this rural community, to demonstrate how it could be done to the rest of the country.
At that time in Uganda, access to grid electricity was a severe challenge, with only 9% of the total population and 2% of the rural population having access. PREEEP aimed to implement community-based grid power extensions to selected villages/trading centers and some schools, institutions, and health centers.
Ameni parish was FCL’s primary focus for the baseline for GiZ. FCL was contacted to carry out a baseline study before the actual connection of the households, SMEs, schools, and institutions to grid electricity.
Objectives of the baseline study
The objective of the study was to assess the prevailing socio-economic situation of the beneficiaries, and thus establish a basis for subsequent monitoring and measurement of the project’s impact on the people, their livelihood and the local economy.
The study report presented the socio-economic situation of the parish focusing on areas likely to be impacted by availability of grid power – like household income, household health, food preservation, and micro/ small business performance.
Outcome of the study
Following the findings and recommendations of the baseline report, grid power was extended to the parish and it has since afforded residents the benefits – healthier lighting, reduced food wastage, better social interactions and, most important, reduced dependence on firewood and charcoal for some families.
Some lessons for Africa
Can the rest of the country, continent and world learn anything from this? Perhaps yes. Rural electrification is a pivotal catalyst for sustainable economic development in Uganda and the rest of Africa. As nations strive for progress and prosperity, extending reliable electricity to remote areas not only bridges the urban-rural divide but also unlocks a myriad of opportunities from empowering local businesses and agriculture to enhancing healthcare and education.
As we navigate the challenges and opportunities on the African continent, investing in rural electrification is an imperative. This is necessary in ensuring that the benefits of economic advancement reach every corner of society. This way, Africa can truly harness its potential, fostering innovation, job creation, and overall societal well-being. The journey toward a brighter, electrified future for rural Africa is not just an investment in power; it is an investment in people’s progress and resilience.
Keren Obara Project – Officer FCL.