African Urban Geography (Geography/Social/Planning) | 20 October 2009
Methodological Evaluation of Off-Grid Communities Systems in Tanzania: Quasi-Experimental Design for Efficiency Gains
M, u, p, e, k, e, M, w, i, r, a, r, i, a, ,, K, i, z, z, a, S, e, r, u, t, i, a
Abstract
Off-grid communities in Tanzania rely on various energy systems for lighting, cooking, and other essential services. There is a need to evaluate these systems' efficiency to inform policy and improve community welfare. A mixed-methods approach combining quantitative data analysis with qualitative interviews was employed. The study utilised a difference-in-differences (DiD) model to compare pre- and post-intervention performance of off-grid energy systems. The DiD model showed an average efficiency gain of 25% in the intervention group compared to controls, indicating significant improvements in system reliability and cost-effectiveness. This quasi-experimental design provided robust evidence for assessing the effectiveness of off-grid community energy systems, contributing to better policy decisions and resource allocation. Policy makers should prioritise investments in off-grid energy systems that demonstrate efficiency gains through rigorous evaluation methods. Off-Grid Communities, Quasi-Experimental Design, Efficiency Gains, Difference-in-Differences (DiD), Energy Systems The empirical specification follows $Y=\beta_0+\beta^\top X+\varepsilon$, and inference is reported with uncertainty-aware statistical criteria.