Introduction

Access to energy is defined in many ways, but most definitions include having reliable and affordable access to both cooking facilities and electricity that can be scaled up over time. Access to a reliable and quality energy supply is vital to the economic development of any country (Bhatia and Angelou, 2015). It drives industrialization, boosts productivity and economic growth, spurs human development, and is crucial to achieve almost all of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). For example, access to electricity can improve the functionality of healthcare facilities and the quality, accessibility and reliability of the health services delivered. It enables the functioning of critically needed medical devices such as vaccine refrigerators, surgical, laboratory and diagnostic equipment. This can contribute to maintaining good health, reducing lost workdays and loss of income, and alleviating poverty (WHO, 2022). Access to electricity also supports quality education by allowing for the use of electronic teaching aids in classrooms, which is recognized as one of the most essential components of poverty reduction (Odarno, 2020). Furthermore, access to electricity facilitates access to safe drinking water, which is fundamental to eliminating poverty. It also provides power for household electrical appliances, which improves the quality of life.

Sustainable Development Goals:

Affordable and Clean Energy

Decent Work and Economic Growth

Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure