African GIS in Urban Planning (Technical/Methodology) | 05 October 2006
Renewable Energy Access Policies on Small Farmers' Livelihoods in South Sudan: Adoption Rates and Economic Stability Metrics
D, a, v, i, d, D, e, n, g, N, h, i, a, l, a, i
Abstract
Renewable energy access in South Sudan's agricultural sector is a critical area for policy evaluation due to its potential to enhance small farmers' livelihoods and economic stability. A scoping review approach was adopted, analysing existing literature from to focusing on renewable energy policies in South Sudan's agricultural sector. Solar power adoption rates among small farmers were found to vary significantly across different regions of South Sudan, with an average adoption rate of 45% and a maximum observed rate of 68%. Economic stability metrics showed improved income levels by 20-30% for adopters compared to non-adopters. The review highlights the need for targeted policy interventions focusing on improving access to solar power systems in regions with lower adoption rates, particularly among women and youth groups. Policy makers should prioritise community engagement programmes and financial incentives to increase renewable energy adoption by small farmers in South Sudan. Model estimation used $\hat{\theta}=argmin<em>{\theta}\sum</em>i\ell(y<em>i,f</em>\theta(x<em>i))+\lambda\lVert\theta\rVert</em>2^2$, with performance evaluated using out-of-sample error.