Appropriate modern lighting systems for off-grid India

Abstract

This research focusses on systems of lighting for low-income households in off-grid remote rural areas. In the dissemination of these systems a significant contribution could be made to CO2 emission reduction, as lighting use with kerosene is replaced by a cleaner technology. As previous researches have focused either on small-scale lanterns or on mini-grid systems supplying electricity, this research considered a more extensive spectrum of the different solutions and delivery models. Literature reviews, interviews and case studies give valuable input in understanding the enablers and obstructions in order to bring successfully modern lighting solutions to remote rural areas. Depending on local conditions different systems are considered more appropriate.

An important part of a lighting system is the technology part. These are solar lanterns, solar home lighting systems and points of lighting using electricity supplied by a mini-grid. Electricity generated through the stand alone mini-grid can be addressed by several means, which are solar, biomass, hydro power and wind. The key factors for user satisfaction and willingness to pay are the lighting duration at sufficient illuminance and the robustness of all components.

Lighting systems in this research also contain the delivery models. The following delivery models have been identified for small-scale solutions: fee-for-service, leasing and consumer financing. For mini-grids these are: community managed systems, village cooperatives and private models. There is not a single lighting system that can be considered the most appropriate. However, several important enablers and inhibitors have been identified. Important factors for successful dissemination are the post-sales service, intelligently designed credit solutions for the end-users and financial solutions for the implementer. Successful implementations is obstructed when the lighting solutions is too expensive and no financial solution is provided. The policies that are unrolled should be carefully prepared and the implementing agencies should be instructed.