An explorative study of the synergy between social enterprises and local micro-entrepreneurs in the provision of off-grid clean energy access

Alleviating energy poverty requires innovative and sustainable business models for delivering energy access. Social enterprises have entered off-grid clean energy access markets, pioneering innovative energy access business models, many of which involve the participation of local micro-entrepreneurs. This research study explores the synergy between social enterprises and local micro-entrepreneurs, specifically in terms of the business models used to incorporate local micro-entrepreneurs into off-grid clean energy value chains and the stages of the value chain in which the local micro-entrepreneurs participate. It furthermore identifies key enabling enterprise ecosystem conditions. A qualitative research methodology and a multiple case study design was used. The sample consisted of 11 respondents, selected through purposive sampling. A semi-structured interview served as the primary data collection instrument and a thematic within-case and cross-case analysis was carried out. This research study represents a pioneering effort, contributing to a growing body of knowledge on innovative participatory business models for energy access

Curriculum transformation to address the Sustainable Development Goals: A holistic approach for embedding gender in higher education

[EN] To better prepare a new generation of practitioners and thought leaders to meet the complex challenges highlighted in the sustainable development goals (SDGs), innovation is needed in the design and delivery of degree programmes. Gender inclusion and diversity are increasingly recognised as key tenets of Education for Sustainable Development. Energy access education in Africa provides an excellent context in which to explore ways of delivering gender inclusive Masters programmes and the curriculum transformations needed to address the dual challenges of SDG7 (energy access) and SDG 5 (gender equality). This paper explores the evolving context of gender mainstreaming in energy access education at Institutions of Higher Learning (IHLs) in Africa, drawing on a desktop study and interviews with 8 African Universities in the Transforming Energy Access Learning Partnership (TEA-LP). The paper calls for the adoption of a more holistic approach to mainstreaming gender in energy access education at IHLs, encompassing curriculum content, teaching methods, learning environments and the broader institutional enabling environment.This research was funded by the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office Transforming Energy Access Programme, IATI Identifier: GB-1-204867. This paper benefited from the advice and support of Guy Cunliffe and Leslie Ashburner from the TEALP. The authors are grateful for their feedback.Pailman, W.; De Groot, J. (2021). Curriculum transformation to address the Sustainable Development Goals: A holistic approach for embedding gender in higher education. En 7th International Conference on Higher Education Advances (HEAd'21). Editorial Universitat Politècnica de València. 119-127. https://doi.org/10.4995/HEAd21.2021.12977OCS11912

Experiences with improved cookstoves in Southern Africa

This study explores user experiences with improved cookstoves, drawing on findings from household surveys conducted in South Africa, Mozambique, Malawi and Zambia. Investigations were conducted on fuel and stove preferences; experiences with improved biomass cookstoves; the rationale for fuel and stovestacking subsequent to the initial uptake of improved biomass cookstoves; and aspirations for energy and fuel use among improved biomass cookstove users. Significant differences were identified in the perceived benefits of improved biomass cookstoves in the four countries and their priorities, with the most important benefits being fuel and cost savings. These would affect the reference frames within which end-users adopt improved biomass cookstoves. Local circumstances and diverse sets of priorities that affect household decisions need to be considered when promoting or rolling out improved cookstove initiatives