Assessing Factors Contributing to Solar Energy Adoption in the Rural Area of Rwamagana District, Rwanda

Abstract

The delayed and unequal uptake of solar energy in rural regions of Rwamagana district in the Eastern Province of Rwanda is a serious issue. Despite the region's great solar potential and government initiatives to encourage renewable energy adoption, many rural households continue to rely on traditional, non-renewable energy sources due to a variety of socioeconomic, infrastructure, and informational constraints. This research assessed the factors contributing to solar energy adoption in rural areas in Rwamagana District. The objectives are to evaluate the current status of solar energy use, identify key determinants of adoption, and analyze the contributions of various influencing factors. Data was gathered using a mixed-methods strategy that used quantitative and qualitative techniques. Structured questionnaires were used to survey a stratified sample of 400 households, and 10 stakeholders participated in semistructured interviews. Data analysis involved descriptive and inferential statistics using SPSS, alongside thematic analysis for qualitative data.The results show that more than 50% of households in Rwamagana District adopted solar energy for domestic electrification, clean cooking, local businesses and agricultural purposes. Furthermore, the adoption of solar energy in Rwamagana District was influenced by a combination of socioeconomic, infrastructural, and policy-related factors at more than 70%.  The research found a positive relationship between solar energy adoption and influencing factors such as governmental policies and incentives, public awareness, advancement of environmental concerns, availability of sunlight, ownership and social norms. The study suggests to enhance financing methods such as microloans and pay-as-you-go systems, to boost government incentives,to invest in training programs, and to put in place focused educational campaigns to increase awareness in order to promote the consumption of solar energy