African Family Business Review (Business/Social crossover) | 19 November 2010
Rural Electrification Projects and Household Energy Consumption Patterns in North-Central Ghana: Qualitative Impact Assessments
A, m, a, d, u, D, a, n, s, o, ,, Y, a, w, G, y, a, m, f, i, ,, N, a, n, a, A, c, h, e, e
Abstract
Rural electrification projects in North-Central Ghana have been initiated to improve access to electricity for households, aiming at enhancing productivity and quality of life. Qualitative data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 50 randomly selected households from three targeted villages. Data analysis focused on thematic content. Households reported a significant increase (32%) in the use of electricity for lighting compared to before electrification, indicating substantial changes in daily routines and energy consumption patterns. The qualitative data suggest that rural electrification projects have positively influenced household energy utilization, particularly in enhancing lighting conditions. However, further quantitative research is recommended to validate these findings. Future studies should consider more detailed socioeconomic factors affecting energy usage and explore the long-term impacts of electrification on sustainable development goals.