Abstract:
Rwanda’s abundant solar energy offers immense potential to address the country’s growing energy needs, particularly in rural areas where access to electricity remains limited. The Rwandan government promotes solar photovoltaic (PV) systems as a cost-effective solution for off-grid communities through its Rural Electrification Strategy, recognizing the role of solar energy in improving living standards, reducing poverty, and fostering environmental sustainability. This study explores the socioeconomic impact of solar energy on households in Bujyujyu Cell, Rwamagana District, focusing on improvements in education, healthcare, and employment. Using a mixed-method approach, the research collected data from 193 randomly selected respondents. Quantitative data were analyzed through descriptive statistics and a binomial logistic regression model. Ethical considerations, such as ensuring participant anonymity and voluntary involvement, were strictly followed during the research. The study revealed that 66.32% of male-headed and 46.37% of female-headed households had access to solar energy, mainly for lighting and charging electronic devices. Solar energy access positively impacted education and employment, with 84.46% of respondents reporting improvements in both. Logistic regression analysis showed a statistically significant relationship between solar energy access and socioeconomic wellbeing (P=0.016), suggesting that solar energy enhances income-generating opportunities, education, and living conditions in rural areas. Notably, low-income households, with 41.97% of respondents earning below 20,000 FRW per month, benefited from reduced energy costs and the ability to engage in small-scale economic activities (P=0.03). However, larger households, typically comprising 4 to 6 members (51.81%), faced challenges due to higher energy demands, which limited the economic benefits derived from solar energy (P=0.000). Overall, the study underscores the significant positive impact of access to solar energy on rural socioeconomic wellbeing, particularly for low-income households. It highlights the potential of solar energy to reduce energy costs, improve education, and create employment opportunities, although larger households may
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struggle to fully capitalize on these benefits due to resource constraints. The study recommends raising awareness about the benefits of solar energy through educational campaigns, investing in decentralized renewable energy technologies, and developing policies that promote wider adoption of solar energy in rural areas. It also suggests further research into the long-term effects of solar energy access on household income and comparisons of solar energy impacts.
