The socio-economic impact of mini-grid usage in Kenya : A qualitative case study in the rural areas of Kisii and Nyamira

Abstract: Today, sub-Saharan Africa accounts for 75% of the world population without access to electricity which corresponds to over 500 million people. One strategy to reduce this number and provide access to electricity for more people, is to install mini-grids. The installment of those is currently in progress in Kenya, and this study put focus on the socio-economic benefits families’ experiences when connecting to a mini-grid. By using a literature review to get a socio-technical perspective, and a case study to investigate the situation in the rural communities of Kenya, several findings were discovered. Some benefits identified are that people felt more included in the society by getting access to information (with radio or TV), a possibility to raise the household income (by starting a business using electricity), and a more favorable study environment at home (thanks to electric lights). This, (among other findings), were visualized using personas, to represent the inhabitants in the counties of interest. Lastly, a discussion about sustainable development is included to explain what it means on a bigger scale if households are electrified.