An assessment of rural electrification projects in Kenya using a sustainability framework

This research is driven by the goal to develop human survivability studies, a solution oriented, trans-disciplinary academic approach for resolving multiple complex societal challenges. Given persisting poverty and inequality in rural areas of developing countries, as well as their vulnerability to the effects of climate change, there are high expectations that rural electrification using renewable energy can contribute to their sustainable development. We therefore use a sustainability framework to assess the contributions of four electrification projects in rural Kenya in ensuring the long-term well-being of local residents and future generations. Our results show that off-grid electrification projects run by the private sector were the better performers in the assessment. While more research is necessary to improve robustness, our preliminary policy recommendations are that Kenyan policy makers should provide further support to private sector-led off-grid solar electrification efforts. •Case study conducted in Kenya using sustainability assessment framework.•Four electrification projects evaluated in sustainability assessment framework.•Private sector off-grid projects were the better performers in the assessment.•Private sector of solar PV market requires further institutional support.